The director of the world-renowned Whitechapel Gallery has been awarded an honorary degree by a London art school with a revolutionary past.

The award by Middlesex University’s Hornsey college is the latest accolade for art world’s “leading light” Iwona Blazwick, the influential art critic appointed to the Whitechapel earlier this year who was given an OBE in 2007.

“What an honour to be recognised by an art school which has such a distinguished and revolutionary past,” she said.

“The former Hornsey art college was legendary for pioneering new techniques in the education of artists which changed the art world.

“So being recognised by this great school is a great dream. It’s fantastic.”

Iwona chairs the Max Mara Art Prize for Women and serves on Film London’s Jarman Award.

Middlesex University vice-chancellor Prof Michael Driscoll said: “Iwona is a leading light in Britain’s artistic scene and works tirelessly to protect and promote contemporary art for everyone. We’re proud to present her with this award.”

Iwona Blazwick is a prolific broadcaster and lecturer, who also sits on the advisory boards of the Government Art Collection and Trafalgar Square’s Fourth Plinth Commissioning Group.