The University of Buckingham Emerita Professor and Alumnus appointed as Honorary King’s Counsel

The University of Buckingham’s Emerita Professor Susan Edwards and Alumnus Dean Dunham have been appointed as Honorary King’s Counsel (KC Honoris Causa).

His Majesty approved the award of eight new Honorary King’s Counsel during January 2026. Honorary KC is awarded to those who have made a significant, positive impact either on the shape of the law of England and Wales or on the legal profession, outside the courtroom.

The Lord Chancellor will preside over the award ceremony at Westminster Hall in March 2026 and formally award the Honorary KCs.

Professor Susan Edwards worked at The University of Buckingham for a period of 30 years and held positions including Dean of Law. Susan is now an Emeritus Professor at the University and is a legal academic at the University of Northumbria, specialising in gender-related issues.

She was nominated for her sustained contribution to understanding and reforming the law of England and Wales on domestic abuse, gender-based violence, and homicide. Her research has shaped policing reforms, CPS practice, and major legislative change – including reforms in the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 and the Domestic Abuse Act 2021. She has further influenced policy, professional practice, and generations of students and lawyers through her teaching, writing, and extensive pro bono engagement.

Speaking of the appointment, Susan explained:

“I am deeply moved to receive this recognition. This honour belongs not just to me, but to the countless survivors whose voices have driven legal reform, and to the dedicated professionals across policing, prosecution, the legal profession and academia who continue to work for justice.

Dean was a student of mine, and so it is such a privilege to receive this award with him – the continuity of Buckingham is endless. I joined the University in August 1989 and left in 2020 and so taught generation(s) of students and am in contact with many alumni from those early days.”

Dean is a solicitor specialising in consumer law and alternative dispute resolution (ADR). He was nominated for pioneering accessible ADR mechanisms in key consumer sectors, improving routes to redress, and shaping dispute resolution practice in England and Wales. His work has empowered large numbers of consumers and contributed to the wider public’s understanding of legal rights.

Speaking of these achievements, Interim Vice-Chancellor, David Cole, stated:

“Congratulations to both Susan and Dean on these outstanding achievements. Their contributions to society and achievements in their profession resonate deeply with our strategic mission to inspire a community of thinkers, leaders and achievers who will shape tomorrow’s world.”

About The University of Buckingham

The University of Buckingham was founded in 1973 as an antidote to the undermining of independence and academic freedom in universities. In 1983, The University of Buckingham became the first University to introduce two-year degrees, saving students valuable time and money, and offering the widest range of courses in a two-year format.

Open Days are held throughout the year, with opportunities to explore Buckingham’s riverside campus, view accommodation, hear from the Students’ Union, and ask students and staff questions about living and studying at the university.

For further information, please contact pressoffice@buckingham.ac.uk