Dr Tom Parkinson and Professor Kathleen M Quinlan, academics in the Centre for the Study of Higher Education (CSHE), have both received inaugural Accolades from the Society for Research into Higher Education.
Dr Parkinson was awarded one of three Academic Citizenship/Services to the Academic Community Accolades, which recognise excellence in academic service, including “supporting the participation and/or advancement of other researchers or practitioners in higher education studies” and having “worked to improve equality, diversity and inclusion in the sector”. Professor Quinlan was awarded one of two Contribution to the Field Accolades, which recognise a “leading or influential figure in their field of research or practice” who has made “a substantial and significant contribution to the understanding of higher education theory, policy and/or practice”.
Ms Kate Robertson of the Council for at Risk Academics commended Dr Parkinson as “an extraordinary, creative and tireless supporter, driver and shaper of the Cara (Council for At-Risk Academics) Syria Programme, supporting its 200+ beneficiaries – displaced and persecuted Syrian academics striving to sustain academic careers in a disadvantaged environment, with disadvantaged profiles, many forced into exile in neighbouring countries by the ongoing Syrian crisis.” He has played numerous roles, including mentor, leader, teacher, facilitator, research collaborator, and academic guide to both Cara and its beneficiaries. He has secured funding for Cara programme elements, contributed to important collaborative research projects, and consistently showcases Syrian colleagues’ work and expertise.
Professor Naomi Winstone, Director of the Surrey Institute of Education, said of Professor Quinlan, “Through her research and practice [on students’ affective engagement], Professor Quinlan has transformed understanding of academic practice and student learning…[her] ability to translate research into practice is a hallmark of her contribution to the understanding of higher education practice. She is equally respected for her research and her leadership, exemplifying the integrated approach to academic practice that characterises sector leaders.” Notably, Professor Quinlan has recently completed a major TASO evaluation of a curricular innovation for reducing awarding gaps, a literature review on assessment and feedback for Advance HE, and a collaborative project with NERUPI that have each generated resources of significant value to the field.
These accomplishments exemplify CSHE’s growing reputation in the field internationally. Congratulations, Tom and Kathleen!