Business stars shine

by Heather Leggett

It was destined to be a night to remember when the Division of Business held its first annual Awards Night on May 5.

Guests gathered under the twinkling lights of the Allan Scott Auditorium to recognise the achievements of academic and professional staff and to celebrate the successful year that was 2009.

Pro Vice Chancellor of the Division of Business, Professor Gerry Griffin, warmly welcomed guests, the first of what will become a tradition of annual awards for the Division.

Five award categories - Research, Teaching, International, External/Community Engagement and Professional - acknowledged the diverse talent of staff within the Division. Specific awards within these categories included Established Researcher, Early Career Researcher, Community Engagement, Internationalisation, Working Across Boundaries, Providing Quality Service, Excellence in Teaching and Supporting Student Learning.

Recipient of the Early Career Researcher award, Dr Tony Cavoli, said his award was a very pleasant surprise.

“It is always fantastic to be acknowledged by your peers. And it’s a particularly great incentive for people who are research active – the funds I’ve received can be used to further my research,” he said.

“Not only that, but the event itself is a great opportunity to network and meet some people you might not have had a chance to meet yet.”

Dr Mei Lim, one of three recipients of the Supporting Student Learning Award, was also surprised when her name was announced.

“It’s a great initiative and a way for the Division to acknowledge the importance of individual areas of performance, such as teaching,” she said.

After the formal proceedings were concluded, the jovial bunch of guests moved to the Hawke Centre’s stunning Kerry Packer Civic Gallery for drinks, canapés, and of course, conversation - no doubt to discuss the finer points of business.