Ms Main said UCOl was vital to Whanganui in terms of retaining young people and providing skilled employees for local industry.
"If we are able to retain young people and also re-train older people looking for a change in lifestyle it very important for us in terms of being able to fill positions that are available in Whanganui."
UCOL Council Chair Malcolm Inglis said Ms Main had helped ensure the tertiary institute remained part of the Whanganui community.
"The UCOL Council awards are our way of publicly recognising those who make considerable contributions to the communities UCOL is part of," he said.
Meanwhile, former Whanganui District councillor Sue Westwood will be recognised with a Honorary Associate award for services to education and serving the community.
The UCOL Council Honours Awards will be presented as part of the Whanganui campus graduation ceremony on March 30.