2006 Media Releases
Monday, 13 November, 2006
Leading La Trobe academic recognised by International Network of Universities
Leading La Trobe academic, Professor Hans Westerbeek, Head of the School of Sport, Tourism and Hospitality Management, was today awarded the inaugural Henry Fong Award for Contributions to Global Citizenship.
Speaking at the presentation following the Board meeting of the International Network of Universities (INU), Professor Westerbeek said he was truly humbled by the INU Executive’s decision to make him the inaugural recipient of this prestigious award.
“I would really like to express my appreciation to the International Network of Universities for taking the initiative to stimulate and recognise work that in one way or the other makes a difference in a global perspective,” he said.
The Henry Fong Award is made possible through a generous donation by prominent Hong Kong business leader and philanthropist, Dr Henry Fong Yun-Wah. It comprises a scholarship to study or do research at a partner INU university on the theme of Global Citizenship and a stipend to support travel costs and living expenses.
La Trobe Vice-Chancellor, Professor Brian Stoddart has welcomed the announcement of the Award and the support of Dr Henry Fong.
“Dr Fong’s generosity and vision is precisely the global view to which La Trobe University aspires, and which it seeks to develop through the INU. The work to be done by Professor Westerbeek is both innovative and globally significant, and therefore fits the nature of the Award perfectly.”
Professor Stoddart suggested that the INU will seek to develop more research collaborations in coming years.
Professor Westerbeek received the Award in recognition of his work which applies strategic management and international marketing theory to the sport, recreation and leisure industries.
“These industries are particularly relevant in the context of Global Citizenship as they are geared towards bringing people together,” said Professor Westerbeek.
“Sport and leisure activities, for example, are increasingly popular policy tools for governments and NGOs to achieve community objectives for citizens.”
Professor Westerbeek intends to pursue research opportunities with James Madison University in Virginia, USA and Malmo University in Sweden as part of his award. This will add to his already impressive list of research activity, including publications such as 'Sport Policy: an International Perspective '(2006), 'Sport Business in the Global Marketplace' (2003) and 'Managing Sport Facilities and Major Events' (2005).
For further information:
Professor Hans Westerbeek, Tel: +61 3 9479 3770 or Email: h.westerbeek@latrobe.edu.au