Tracy Aust, former Chief Executive and Principal of West Thames College, has received an OBE in the King’s New Year Honours.
Tracy worked at the college, which has its main campus in Isleworth and a skills centre in Feltham, for 27 years.
She spent the last 10 years as Chief Executive and Principal, before retiring earlier this year.
Cllr Shantanu Rajawat, Leader of Hounslow Council, said:
I am delighted to congratulate Tracy on this well-deserved honour. Her leadership at West Thames College has made a lasting difference to Hounslow, creating opportunities for thousands of young people and adults to gain skills, confidence and employment.
As a powerful advocate for further education and social mobility, she brings great passion and enthusiasm to all she does. She has always been a valued partner of the Council and played a leading role in helping Hounslow recover from the COVID pandemic. This recognition rightly reflects the positive impact she has had on our borough and its people.
Replying to Cllr Rajawat on LinkedIn, Tracy said:
Thank you so much for your very kind words and for your continued support. It has been an absolute privilege working in Hounslow. It is a fantastic community that really puts education, skills and employment at the heart of all it does.
