Honorary Fellowship: how nomination works

An Honorary Fellow of the Learned Society of Wales is distinct from our broader Fellowship category.  Honorary Fellows are recommended by existing Fellows and, where they fulfil our criteria, are invited to accept the honour.

Election as an Honorary Fellow of the Learned Society of Wales recognises individuals with an international reputation, an exceptionally high public profile, and outstanding impact in their domain. Honorary Fellows are supportive of LSW’s Mission and act as ambassadors for the Society. The criteria for Honorary Fellowship is detailed below.

Recommending Honorary Fellows:

Any Fellow of the Learned Society of Wales may submit a Letter of Recommendation for Honorary Fellowship.  You are welcome to complete your form in Welsh and/or English.

Recommendation should remain confidential and nominators should NOT inform the candidate of their recommendation – they will be contacted by LSW staff should they be put forward for election.

The window for submitting a Letter of Recommendation is open from 1^st May 2026 and closes at midnight on 30^th September 2026.

• Guidance for Honorary Fellowship recommendations
• Submit a letter of recommendation: Honorary Fellowship of the LSW 2026

Who might be an Honorary Fellow?

Honorary Fellows may be from any nation, background (academic or otherwise) or field of expertise, as long as it can be demonstrated that they meet the criteria.  Candidates may include those who could not ordinarily be nominated under LSW Fellowship rules. 

Whilst important to Fellowship in general, the connection to Wales for Honorary Fellows is desirable rather than essential.  It might be light touch, illustrating an affinity for and a personal commitment to Wales and the work of the Learned Society 

Our work thrives on the diversity of our Fellowship and we encourage nominations of people from all backgrounds, experiences, beliefs and cultures.  When looking to nominate – please consider the traditional networks you are part of, consider ways to broaden your search and actively seek out diverse candidates.  You can nominate a candidate from anywhere – they do not have to be part of your network. 

Diversity comes in many forms – including, but not limited to the nine protected characteristics.  This includes age, race, disability and sex. 

Honorary Fellowship Criteria:

Election as an Honorary Fellow of the Learned Society of Wales recognises those with an international reputation, an exceptionally high public profile, and outstanding impact in their domain. They will be supportive of LSW’s Mission and will be willing to act as an ambassador for the Society.

Candidates may include those who could not ordinarily be nominated under LSW Fellowship rules.  An Honorary Fellow should not have a perceived conflict of interest with the Society’s strategic objectives and ambitions.

Honorary Fellows may be from any nation, background (academic or otherwise) or field of expertise, as long as it can be demonstrated that they meet the following criteria:

• An outstanding and impactful contribution to society and/or scholarship which is globally recognised.

Honorary Fellows will have a reputation for achievements that are of international value, including charitable and philanthropic work.

• An exceptionally high positive public profile.

Honorary Fellows will have a significant and positive public profile beyond their area of expertise.

• A career and standing that align with the strategic objectives and ambitions of LSW.   

The work and career of Honorary Fellows will support and align with the strategic objectives and ambitions of the Society. We hope that our Honorary Fellows will be willing to commit their time and influence to help shape and develop the Society’s priorities.

• Willingness to engage with the Society at the ambassadorial level.

Honorary Fellows may be in a position to participate in high level debates and agenda-setting activities on behalf of the Society.

• It is desirable, but not essential, that Honorary Fellows can demonstrate some connection to, or affinity with, Wales.

We would expect our Honorary Fellows to be personally committed to the wellbeing of Wales.