Head of Welsh Development to be honoured at this year’s Wrecsam Eisteddfod

Date: Wednesday, June 4, 2025

The Head of Welsh Development at Wrexham University will be honoured by the Gorsedd of Bards at this year’s National Eisteddfod for her contribution to higher education and her work in championing the Welsh language.

Elen Mai Nefydd has been recognised for her contribution to the sector over the last 25 years in North Wales, as well as attracting new audiences to the Welsh language and the Eisteddfod.

She is one of a select number of individuals who have been recognised from all parts of the country for their achievements and their commitment to Wales, the language and their local communities.

In line with Gorsedd Cymru’s arrangements for honouring new members, all new members are admitted at the same level, irrespective of whether they are honoured with blue or green robes.

Those who have succeeded in the fields of law, science, sports, journalism, media, local / national activities and services to the nation are presented with blue robes.  While, the Gorsedd admits new members to the green robes for their contribution to the arts and services to the nation – and both recipients of the blue and green robes become Honorary Druids.  

Elen Mai will be presented with her own green robe, including her bardic name, in recognition of her efforts.

When Elen Mai first joined the University, she was the Programme Leader for Theatre, TV and Performance, prior to taking up her current role in 2022.

Today, Elen Mai leads on the institution’s Welsh Language Academic Strategy and Action Plan, which sets out to enhance the provision of Welsh medium development at the University. 

Since its launch, Welsh language modules have been introduced to a number of degree courses including Speech and Language Therapy and Professional Policing.

In the run-up to the National Eisteddfod, Elen Mai is serving as Vice-Chair for Culture of the Wrexham National Eisteddfod Executive Committee 2025.

Speaking about the honour, she said: “I am absolutely delighted and feel immensely proud that I will be honoured by the Gorsedd of Bards at this year’s Eisteddfod, it really is a pinch me moment – and the fact that it is taking place here in Wrexham this year makes it even more memorable and special for me.

“This recognition comes at an incredibly exciting time for the local area, as there’s been a real tangible and positive change in the air in Wrexham, through so many vibrant cultural activities and milestones.

“It’s been wonderful to have so many great opportunities to promote the Welsh language to everyone in our community, in the hope that it will leave a lasting cultural and linguistic legacy in the region after the Eisteddfod visit.

“It’s also been extremely rewarding to see how far the institution has grown in relation to its Welsh language provision and offer for both students and staff.”

Professor Joe Yates, Vice-Chancellor of Wrexham University, added: “Llongyfarchiadau to Elen Mai for this highly prestigious accolade in recognition of her services to higher education here in North Wales, which highlights her dedication to championing and enhancing provision of Welsh medium and bilingual education, here at the University and within the community.

“As a Welsh institution, we are proud of our heritage and the language and as part of our recently launched vision and strategy, actively promoting the Welsh language, culture and heritage through all our activities is the golden thread running through everything that we do.”

Elen Mai and the other recipients will be honoured at special ceremonies on the Eisteddfod Maes during the first week of August.