A Career of Supervision

A Career of Supervision

Gareth Shaw BA Hons. PhD.

Foreword

Some records will never be bettered while others take an awfully long time to break. Gareth, as you mark the milestone of your hundredth completion (and counting), it is both an honour and pleasure to offer these words of introduction to this collection of testimonials, both as co-supervisor of 15 students as well as a beneficiary of your supervision for ‘both’ my PhDs. As you will, no doubt recall, at the verdict my examiners recorded with some amusement that they could see the hallmarks of your scholarship and supervision in my thesis of ‘two halves’, each of which could have stood on its own.

At the time I was a staff candidate working as your research assistant on a four-year Leverhulme Trust-funded project on town directories, the forerunner of the telephone book. My PhD was part-time and, faced with the enormity of this apparent magnum opus, one of my abiding memories was how we worked to deconstruct the project into manageable chunks. In addition to the golden threads of clear aims and objectives running through the thesis, each chapter had to serve its particular, clearly-articulated purpose.

This probably sounds familiar to everyone whose research has been supervised by you, whether at doctoral, masters or even undergraduate level. I hesitate to imagine how many students that is, in total! Little did I know at the time but in effect we were using a project management-based approach – it wasn’t called that back then. Just as effective in my case for researching city directories as fin-de-siecle retail evolution in Germany, this has approach stood the test of time. In nearly four decades of your advising a cosmopolitan, international group, it has benefitted students working in a variety of homes and professional settings including tourism, retailing, marketing, sustainability and urban history. It has proved successful in the analogue and digital eras, for projects adopting different paradigms and diverse techniques. It has been a central feature in a model of supervision you first developed with Allan Williams as well as Andrew Gilg and Stewart Barr in the geography department, and later refined in the Business School with Adrian Bailey, Jo Connell, Simon James, Ian Hipkin among so many others besides.

The more I supervised with you and the more I read of ‘best practice’ guides to supervision, the more it struck me that viewing dissertations as projects, sure was effective. And so it has come to pass. We tried to encapsulate the essence of this approach in a 2013 book so that others may benefit from the undoubted breadth and depth of your expertise and experience. ‘100 completions’ is an incredible achievement in its own right, made more so in your case for the reasons so many of us are familiar with. However, as your former students and colleagues convey in the pages that follow, your contribution has been much richer and far greater. More important than the number are the transformative effects you have had on so many lives. Many of your former PhD students have senior positions in the academy and outside it. As a champion of doctoral studies, you have been unstinting in your advice and support to new and inexperienced supervisors at Exeter and beyond. You have also been incredibly generous to countless doctoral students from other institutions at conferences, seminars and training events as well as to all those you have examined and sponsored in their visits to Exeter.

It’s hard to know if any doctoral supervisor in the UK has ever reached the milestone of 100 completions before but it is highly doubtful. With a passion to continue, the question now is how high are you going to set the bar, and will your record ever be surpassed?

- Professor Tim Coles April 2024

Tributes

Professor Lisa Roberts, President & Vice-Chancellor

To have successfully guided 100 students through the formative, and often difficult, journey of completing their PhD is a phenomenal achievement, one of which to be immensely proud. Gareth personifies the commitment to supporting success in a world-leading research environment at our university, and we celebrate him for this. Congratulations Gareth, for such a stellar contribution to the University of Exeter community and your role in training the next generation!

Professor Krasimira Tsaneva – Vice-President and Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Impact)

Congratulations to Gareth Shaw on reaching this incredible milestone of 100 successful PhD supervisions! Your dedication, expertise, and unwavering support have undoubtedly shaped the academic journeys of countless students. Your commitment to excellence and mentorship is truly commendable, and it’s a privilege to witness the impact you’ve had on our academic community. Here’s to celebrating your remarkable achievements, Gareth, and to many more successful supervisions in the future!

Professor Alexandra Gerbasi, Pro-Vice Chancellor and Executive Dean, Faculty of Environment, Science and Economy

Many congratulations on your 100th doctoral student. Your support for students as they progress on their journey is magnificent, and a testimony to your passion for educating and training the next generation of scholars.

All the best

Professor David Boughey, Interim DPVC and Dean of the Business School

Attaining 100 successful PhD awards happens neither by accident nor through longevity. One has to be a superlative supervisor, adept at working with a huge diversity of students, and their motivations, initial skills, and subject matter. Nurturing intellectual curiosity at this advanced level, and in such volume, takes skill and stamina; Gareth has the elusive qualities that make this possible. We therefore take this moment to stand back and applaud his sustained commitment to assisting others advance scholarship and launch meaningful careers.

Prof Kim Peters, Director of Postgraduate Studies (Business School)

I have come to regard you as one of the most caring and responsible supervisors that we have at the University of Exeter – someone who not only prioritises his students’ best interests but also has complete belief in their abilities to complete a PhD. Importantly, your care and confidence are accompanied by immense supervisory competence. I greatly admire what you have achieved for our students and am very grateful for the support that you have provided to our PGR community over the years. Kim Peters

Co-Supervisors

Professor Emeritus Des Walling – (Geography Dept, University of Exeter)

I was delighted to learn that Gareth has recently passed the milestone of supervising 100 successful PhD completions. This is an outstanding achievement and, as a former colleague from the time he spent in the Geography Department, I welcome this opportunity to send him my warm congratulations. I have not been able to find any comparative information, but I feel sure that a century of successfully completed theses must be a contender for a record. Averaged over his career as a university academic, it represents a sustained output of about two PhD completions per year. However, the output will have varied through time and there were probably years with four, or perhaps even more, completions. This represents a substantial workload, but for Gareth the opportunity to get involved with another PhD student and another project far outweighed any concerns about workload. Gareth’s achievement also represents a major contribution to his discipline, both in the UK and internationally, since working with PhD students provides a very fertile environment for the evolution of new ideas and new approaches. With the majority of these successful PhD candidates coming from overseas, particularly in more recent years when he was a member of the Business School, Gareth’s achievement reflects well on the role of Exeter University as an international institution and the role of the UK in training future generations of overseas academics and researchers.

Although we worked in different disciplines, with Gareth a human geographer and social scientist and myself a physical geographer and environmental scientist, we had similar views and outlooks on many issues, both academic and more generally. As an undergraduate at the University of Hull, I think that Gareth found physical geography an interesting subject area. He sometimes recalled his contact with staff such as Ian Douglas, Roy Ward and Alistair Pitty. His positive relationship with physical geography resulted in our collaborating in supervising two PhD students whose research topics bridged the divide between human and physical geography. Both were good highly committed research students. The first was Sue Rodway-Dyer, a NERC-funded student who worked on tourist pressure on the Dartmoor landscape, and other areas in Devon, and investigated both the motives and attitudes of the tourists and used a novel approach involving fallout radionuclides (caesium-137) to quantify damage to footpaths. The second was Lysiane den Breejen who focussed on longdistance walking, with particular emphasis on the West Highland Way in Scotland and again investigated both the motives of the walkers and the damage caused to and by footpaths. I enjoyed the opportunity to collaborate with Gareth and I was impressed by his rigorous but friendly approach to supervision and his ability to provide both clear guidance and strong encouragement that produced good results and also provided good training. His success as a supervisor reflects both his strong commitment and an inspired approach.

I can remember many conversations with Gareth over the years, when he referred to his pride in his growing number of successful PhD candidates. This was well justified and his continuing involvement with PhD students has doubtless provided an important incentive to delay his retirement. He greatly enjoys this component of his work. The total of 100 that he has now surpassed is likely to continue to increase and I wish him well in pushing it even higher.

- Des Walling

Professor Andrew Gilg – (Member of Geography Staff 1970-2005)

Memories

of Sally Dench’s Ph.D 1983 By Andrew Gilg

I think it was the late 1970s and I had been in post since September 1970 and I had supervised I think only one Ph.D thesis at that time, David Leat on how pressure groups had influenced infrastructure projects in Devon, with Mark Blacksell.

Initially Peter Toyne (who left Exeter not that much later to work as a university administrator at first Chichester then Liverpool John Moore’s University as VC) was the lead supervisor but he was already not that interested in research by proxy and told me that Sally’s research into how young people choose A-level subjects etc was passe and had already been done.

This was fairly spurious and I think that Sally’s thesis was funded by the then SSRC (Social Science Research Council) was breaking new ground as it was directed to rural areas where students had limited choices of A-levels unless they boarded in the bigger towns.

So, I became the nominal lead supervisor (I recall then that junior staff needed another supervisor to initiate them into the skills needed) and asked Gareth who had I think joined Exeter in the mid-1970s to join me though at that time Gareth was an historical geographer and I was researching and writing about Countryside Planning so that neither of us had much knowledge about school education and careers.

But those were innocent days with very little control over how academics worked. We were trusted to get on with the job and indeed learnt on the job. I had started in 1970 only one year after graduating from Edinburgh University and Gareth had only recently got his Ph.D.

But as far as I can recall we co-learnt with Sally and she produced a thorough and sound thesis which as far as we could tell from our limited experience passed the tests of new knowledge, produced from original research, analysed in a coherent and systematic way and with clear conclusions and the bonus of policy recommendations.

There was no obvious external examiner in the same field so we approached Professor Chisholm at Cambridge who had written a book on Rural Settlememt and Land Use which had impressed me as a student. He agreed and at the Xmas IBG at Edinburgh I had a chat with him and he appeared to say that the thesis topic and results sounded good.

So, the summer came and time for the external examination. Professor Chisholm stayed at Professor Ravenhill’s house who was the chair of the Viva and as it was a hot sunny July Sunday he went for a swim of the Devon coast.

Monday dawned and the four of us met for lunch at the Staff Club but from the outset there was a problem as Professor Chisholm claimed that the subject matter was not really worthy of a Geography degree and that the work was also not up to the standard required.

We returned to Amory and in those days the supervisors were not allowed into the Viva and wished Sally well without telling her that Chisholm had reservations.

After a nervous wait of about an hour or so Chisholm suddenly appeared looking ill and said he was going to vomit. He did as far I know and then we put him to recover in the Women’s Rest Room (a compulsory feature those days).

Eventually he recovered and Bill Ravenhill took him to the station without the unfinished Viva reconvening.

In the meantime, Gareth and I had to console Sally in the Senior Common Room and eventually I offered to put Sally up for the night rather than return to her home. Sally had

had baby sat for my two children so this would help her deal with the events of the afternoon.

The evening was spent in reassuring Sally that the thesis was OK, but the big problem was that the meeting had broken up without any decision.

It was decided to take the case to the Social Sciences Faculty Board and they asked Gareth and me to meet with Chisholm on the premise that Chisholm might have not been his self as a result of probably suffering from a stomach upset caused by his sea swim

Gareth and I travelled to London and met Chisholm and we agreed to disagree but that he was happy for a new examiner to take over.

So we approached Professor Gordon Cherry who I had written a chapter on ‘Rural Employment’ in his edited book ‘Rural Planning Problems’.

The day of the exam came and with great relief Prof Cherry passed the thesis with few corrections and even claimed that there might have been enough material for two theses.

So it all ended well though it was by far the most stressful end of a Ph.D that I can recall. Some years later supervisors were allowed to attend Vivas partly as a result of the Chisholm experience.

Sally went on to a successful career including a spell in the Department of Education involved with young people’s education and for a while worked with Sir Geoffrey Holland who went onto become an Exeter VC in the 1990s. She married late in life and now lives in happy retirement in Sussex, and we exchange long Xmas letters.

Professor Allan Williams, Chair in Tourism and Mobility Studies, University of Surrey

Gareth and I co-supervised PhD students over two decades so that by the end I think we knew in advance what the other one was going to say. Unconsciously, we settled into a ‘good cop bad cop’ routine for one of our former PhD students said they called us their academic mother and father. I leave you to guess which role we filled! It was great supervising with you Gareth – at least most of the time!

-Allan

Professor Stewart Barr - Professor of Geography

I have had the privilege of co-supervising several students with Gareth, mostly at the start of my academic career. Gareth was an outstanding mentor when I started my job, demonstrating an effective way to support students through their research. I learnt a huge amount from him - from how to get students started to how to conduct an effective viva. Gareth is a hugely generous supervisor, offering students and co-supervisors time and space to meet and discuss their work. He effortlessly blends intellectual discussion with generous hospitality. He also provides sound advice, giving students strong direction and ongoing career advice. In particular, Gareth is always there when students or co-supervisors need support. He is someone who takes a practical and positive approach to overcoming challenges. Gareth can also be relied upon to tell amusing anecdotes that make meetings a pleasure - he is probably the best storyteller I know. Thank you, Gareth, for your outstanding and continuing work to support the next generation of researchers and supervisors.

Dr Adrian Bailey – Senior Lecturer in Management

My first PhD supervision experience was with Gareth back in 2009. Yan Wen-Thornton was a very ambitious student who had contacted Gareth, or was it me, I cannot recall. The research proposal was clear from the start. Yan’s experience meant she was keen to conduct longitudinal research into female entrepreneurs in China. Yan was extremely efficient in conducting the research and created a narrative that resembled the structure of the novel Wild Swans. She interviewed entrepreneurs that seeded their enterprises in the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s, tracking their achievements in relation to their lives as women. As a new supervisor, working with Gareth was a great experience. Gareth and I had previously worked together on the AHRC ‘Reconstructing Consumer Landscapes’ project and had become accustomed to the arc of qualitative research. I learned a lot about the structure of a PhD from Gareth’s method of working from clear aims and objectives. I can recall that we were both surprised when Yan announced that she had collected her data and had used a set of questions that we had not reviewed. It turned out fine in the end, but the look of shock on both our faces was memorable and quite amusing to reflect on now. I think we did laugh at the time. Gareth’s mischievous interpretation of events and laughter are one of his endearing traits. At that moment, discussing Yan’s work, we were sat in the Innovation Centre café, which was one of our regular haunts when we were temporarily relocated during building work in Streatham Court. We both recognised that Yan was a strong character and we were pleased that she was shaping her research and taking the initiative. During that time, I was also supervising with Tim Coles and learned a lot vicariously through Tim about Gareth’s method. Gareth and I went on to supervise a further two students. Yunfeng Shang explored ‘Factors determining eTourism innovation in small and medium sized tourism enterprises: the case of China’ and Cheng Man (Eddy) ‘Tourist-host encounters of Chinese tourists with a UK community: the applications of a social network theory perspective to understanding tourists from emerging economies’. I recall that Gareth was extremely busy with Business School leadership during these two PhDs, so I was determined to do my best to support and hopefully gain approval from the master practitioner. The factor analysis with Yunfeng went well, but adopting Jacques Derrida’s theories on critical inheritance in Eddy’s PhD was a bridge too far and perhaps the moment of greatest strain in our supervisory relationship. We haven’t supervising again since then, but not because of any disagreement. Our academic pathways diverged. I moved more towards research into Co-operatives and Gareth remained loyal to his tourism routes. Our paths do cross in my role as Director of Research Ethics. For the past ten years I have been reviewing, advising and approving PhD students’ applications for research ethics approval. Gareth tends to work with students who have English as an additional language and his method of supervision is well adapted to their needs for clarity. I imagine that sometimes the Research Ethics Committee insistence for yet one more round of revision does send him round the bend, to use an idiom. Sorry Gareth and thanks for being patient! We remain firm friends and one of my great pleasures in life is to have a cup of tea and a long chat with Gareth. I first enjoyed these conversations over tea on the AHRC project and found them incredibly supportive during the stresses as a post-doctoral researcher. One of Gareth’s best and enduring qualities is that he is fiercely loyal and is a strong advocate for his doctoral students. Conducting a PhD is an extremely stressful activity and Gareth is a role model in advocating for his students and willing them to succeed. I offer my congratulations to Gareth on a century of completions. It has been my privilege to participate in a few of those and I know that the positive impacts of his supervision will be incalculable in the lives of his students.”

Professor Joanne Connell – Associate Professor in Sustainability and Tourism

Gareth, some of the most memorable experiences of my time at Exeter are our PhD co-supervisions and the delightful cast of students that continue to play a part in keeping the flag flying for our subject area. Long may we continue! Your academic guidance, drinking tea (thanks Heather!) and a good dose of humour and humility thrown in for good measure keeps everyone in good spirits and gets students through those tough times. 100 completions – what a huge achievement, I will leave that to someone else to calculate how many hours that represents. So many of these students are now in academic positions across the world. I am privileged to work with you and to have learned so much about supervising over the years. I think I may even have the claim to fame that I supervised that 100th student with you

Dr Simon James – Honorary Associate Professor

I very much enjoyed co-supervising research students with Gareth over many years. He is extremely good at bringing out the best in students and the supervision sessions were very productive and interesting.

The students’ research topics covered a wide range of subjects. These included the impact of advertising, consumer behaviour, postgraduate students and marketing, revenue management, pricing, service quality management, ski resorts, tourism and tourism destination management. The research often had important wider implications. For example, one student’s thesis, which centred on postgraduate students, had significant implications for those working in higher education policy and marketing in relation to understanding market positioning, strategies and improving services. All of the theses were systematically researched with a careful approach to methodology, analysis and relevant results. I probably learned as much as anyone!

Although Gareth must be one of the most hardworking academics, I also enjoyed other events with him such as the Men’s Walk in aid of Hospiscare. It even finished with a pie and a pint and watching the Six Nations versus Wales on large screens at the Exeter Suite at the Sandy Park Stadium.

Dr Ian Hipkin

I have supervised many PhD students with Gareth over the years. A number of factors characterise his labours. We know how incredibly hard he works. He responds to emails at all times of the day, every day of the week. It is not just the hours he puts in, but his dedication to supervisory duties, his concern for, and interest in students, his constructive comments and encouragement, his insight, his expertise in supervising. Yes, one could say that having supervised more than 100 PhD students, he would have developed at least some degree of proficiency in the process!

Gareth’s approach to supervising is wholly professional, with no 007 intrigue or magic. His regular feedback is comprehensive. His insistence on monthly meetings with students is admirable. When students near completion, such meetings are more frequent and he reads countless ‘final drafts’ of theses. His knowledge of the literature is formidable, accompanied by a methodological approach based on wide ranging insight into quantitative, qualitative

research and analytical skills. This scope of expertise and dedication is rare indeed.

In addition to his supervisory functions and teaching, Gareth has a proud research record and a remarkable ability to attract research funding. These in turn greatly enrich his PhD supervision. How many Business School staff have not turned to him for assistance and guidance?

Supervising with Gareth is both a privilege and a pleasure. Yes, hard work and expertise characterise his work, but there is also a great deal of fun. His self-depreciation is a pleasure to behold and a delight to exploit.

We lesser mortals may be covetous of his commitment and devotion, but he has had one massive advantage not available to the rest of us: the towering support of Heather. Gareth has, in part, been able to excel in so many fields of endeavour because of her invaluable help and support. I wonder how many administrative emails and policies Gareth actually reads: there is no need, for Heather reads them all and instructs him to act accordingly. He willingly and respectfully obeys.

When do we celebrate the 200th PhD?

Dr Alex Thompson – Senior Lecturer

I had co-supervised a four students before I had the opportunity to work with Gareth. I have to say that all of those experiences posed significant challenges. One of my big frustrations was poor supervision from my co-supervisors. This put a lot of pressure on students who weren’t equipped to overcome this obstacle. In many cases, I felt like I was supervising a student alone.

I have to say that all of that changed when I worked with Gareth. I will never forget the first meeting we had with one of our students where he described the relationship like a factory system. He didn’t mean this in a negative or callus way, just that he expected the relationship to be efficient and on schedule. Students who weren’t able to maintain that level of production had the potential to fall out of sync with the system.

Gareth’s approach to supervision is the best I have ever seen. Once students are on the system, it means regular meetings. It means that students must produce work at certain times and feedback will be provided throughout the dissertation experience. While the factory analogy may sound like some dystopia method to supervision, it was the exact opposite. It meant that students received step-by-step instruction and guidance throughout their whole dissertation experience. Having witnessed Gareth’s approach, I am not quite sure I want to work with anyone else in dissertation co-supervision. He is that good and his students love him. I love him as a colleague.

-Alex Thompson

Professor William Harvey - Professor of Leadership, Melbourne Business School, University of Melbourne

I have had the great privilege of co-supervising with Gareth Shaw and witnessing his excellent supervisory skills over many years, as a colleague and as a former Associate Dean of Research where I had strategic oversight of postgraduate research supervision.

Gareth has a unique style where he balances being both tough and kind. He is tough because he wants his students to succeed and thrive during their PhDs and in their careers. Given the number and variety of students that he is supervised to completion from different parts of the world and cultural contexts, this has been an inspiration to us all.

Gareth is also very kind, generous with his time and always recognising that all of his students have a variety of challenges at different stages of their lives and PhD journey. As an aside, Gareth has been unwavering in his support to me and others as a colleague and cosupervisor. I have learned a great deal from him and I have reflected on my own approach as a supervisor, navigating that balance between toughness and kindness, always with a sensitivity to the student’s individual context.

I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award, not only for this year, but for the many decades of excellent service that has culminated in so many students and supervisors benefiting, which has enriched our research community around the world and society more broadly.

Olga Kalinowska-Beszczynska

Dear Gareth, Working with you has been a fantastic learning experience. I really appreciate the time and support you’ve given both our students and me. Thank you so much!

Former Student Testimonials

Sally Dench - (1983)

I started studying for a PhD in the autumn of 1977, after being an undergrad in the same department. I am not sure how I arrived at a topic, but Andrew (Gilg) suggested we ask Gareth to be a supervisor as well. I think I was his first PhD student. Having two supervisors added plenty to my thesis, both brought different knowledge, research skills, etc. Gareth encouraged me to look at statistics and the more economic side.

During the viva the external examiner was taken ill, once I had left the room. I remember hearing afterwards that he was lying on the floor. Either Gareth or Andrew would come out to update me on what was happening. We found afterwards that this examiner had been taken ill during other vivas. Sorting this out took some months, and it is due to the efforts of Gareth and Andrew that a second viva was arranged, with two different external examiners, and I was awarded my PhD.

I didn’t finish the three-year grant, jobs were increasingly scarce it seemed around then and when I was offered one in Wales the opportunity seemed too good to miss. It was directly related to the subject of my thesis. My PhD set me off on a career path I never expected, and I stayed in research all my working career.

I can’t remember much detail about life in Exeter after all this time. However, the postgraduates all shared a room. Many of the departmental staff, including Gareth and Andrew were young, some not a lot older than the postgrads. I remember there was lots going on socially, sadly nothing particular comes to mind to add here. I do remember that alcohol was nearly always involved.

Congratulations to Gareth for seeing so many students through their PhD, and for still working. Your stamina to keep going Gareth is greater than mine. And thank you for your support through everything all those years ago.

Professor Jay Kandampully (1993) – Professor of Service Management, The Ohio State University

Gareth exemplifies the epitome of a role model. As a compassionate mentor and advisor, he embodies the ideal guide that every aspiring scholar dreams of having. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have been under Gareth’s mentorship during my PhD journey. He was instrumental in transforming my life and what I have learned from Gareth has enabled me to similarly help others on their own academic journeys.

With an ever-present smile, Gareth’s unwavering availability provided a steady hand during moments of uncertainty and academic challenges. Despite having studied and taught in various educational institutions in many countries, I have yet to encounter a scholar as diligent, empathetic, and prolific as Gareth. His tireless dedication and genuine care for his students ensures a nurturing atmosphere and the confidence to go beyond one’s comfort zone.

Professor Andrew Alexander – (1994) – Professor of Retail Management, University of Surrey

Gareth, many congratulations on this achievement! I very much appreciate all the guidance and support that you have provided to me.

Professor Sheela Agarwal – (1995) –Plymouth University

Well, what can I say about Gareth as my PhD supervisor without getting into too much trouble! By way of a starter for 10, from the moment I met with Gareth to discuss the possibility of pursuing a PhD, he has been nothing short of supportive and encouraging. I have the infamous accolade of being his first and I like to think his favourite tourism PhD student (before being usurped by the beautiful Claire Dinan), and together with Professor Allan Williams, I embarked on a study of English seaside resorts, a topic that is still the focus of my research today. I started my PhD on a part-time basis and as a self-funded student, I studied part-time and worked part-time for Gareth and Allan’s consultancy company, The Tourism Research Group. This was an experience that I will never forget for a variety of reasons, not least because of Gareth’s work prioritisation system consisting of ‘urgent’, ‘very urgent’, ‘really urgent as deadline approaching’, ‘really, very urgent as deadline passed’, and ‘extremely urgent as late’. Gareth and I Allan both to this day say that working for them was the making of me and indeed I learnt a lot.

Another highlight of my supervisory experience with Gareth includes our two to three monthly meetings to discuss set tasks. These meetings were interesting too. They sat me in the middle of them both (think Jurassic Park and two velociroaptors) and fire (well it felt like it) really difficult questions at me (well it felt like it at the time). In an attempt to avoid the pincered effect (and the difficult questions), I used to be silent and wait for one of them to throw me a lifeline. Allan used to say, ‘I’m waiting’, while Gareth always helped me out, and was forever known as my favourite supervisor but please don’t tell Allan!

I remember also the time I visited Gareth in hospital with Andy Alexander and Penny. Our objective of visiting was to bring some cheer, but little did I know just how much I brought that afternoon. We stayed for a while and had a little chit chat and then left. We also had the pleasure of meeting Gareth’s lovely mum. Unbeknown to me, after we left, Gareth’s mum looked very seriously at Gareth and said, ‘Gosh those two are every so young to have a daughter that old’! Oh, it tickled Gareth something rotten and he has never let me forget about it ever since.

Gareth really is a supervisor for life as he has been instrumental throughout my career in helping me to progress. Whenever I need advice, he is always there and is a fantastic mentor. I could go on, but I thought I would finish by leaving you with three tops tips all PhD students should know in advance about Gareth as a supervisor:

- Gareth’s desk filing system is interesting but when asked for a document, he always knows which layer of paperwork it is under!

- On occasion, Gareth tidies his desk (often prompted by Margaret) but it doesn’t really look much different. Never fear he still know where to find what he is looking for.

- Under no circumstances, never ever, let Gareth set you up with another postgrad! It will not go well.

Neil Carr (1997) – Professor University of Otago, NZ

I’d like to share three memories of my time as one of his PhD students. 1. the ocean of chaos that seemed to be his desk. You’d give him something to read, he’d toss it onto the pile and you’d forlornly wave it goodbye, then as if by a miracle of convection currents then next time you met him he’d scoop it off the pile all covered in feedback. 2. After three years of being hammered to improve English quality to be praised for English quality in the viva and get your supervisors turning around and saying look what all our feedback helped you achieve. 3. Being told that the thesis was ready for examination after being checked by a certain supervisor while he was watching a rugby match on TV. While all may have been unnerving, they all clearly worked.

Matthew Punter (1999)

I had the pleasure of studying under Gareth as an undergraduate between 1992 and 1995 and one of the highlights of my degree was the tourism courses that he used to run within the Geography department. Having had my appetite whetted, I was thrilled to be invited back to work on a PhD in tourism a short while after my graduation with Gareth and Professor Allan Williams as my supervisors. At this time, there was a ‘Tourism Research Group’ within the department which had built up strong connections with the Westcountry Tourist Board and the work involved close co-operation with the team at the board as well as the research group.

Gareth was instrumental in bringing all of this together and providing me with a unique opportunity to understand not just the academic dimension to tourism studies but also the commercial realities. Gareth’s wonderful humour and natural inclination to not take anything too seriously masked a sharp mind and deep thinker. He was an encouraging and challenging supervisor who humanised the subject and continually pushed me to pursue greater understanding and expertise within tourism and was constantly on the look-out for other opportunities to contribute at conferences and in research papers.

I look back on my time studying under Gareth with great affection and appreciation for his warmth and his wit. Even after I left Exeter, he remained incredibly engaged and helpful as I established myself in my career of retail analysis (his other main passion). It is an honour to have been a part of his journey and to be asked to contribute in this way and I wish Gareth all the health and happiness in the coming years.

- Matthew Punter

Dr Martin Selby (2000) – Principal Lecturer, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool

Gareth was my PhD supervisor in the late 90s – I was actually based at Cardiff Met, working as a Research Assistant. I used to really look forward to my visits to Exeter for supervision meetings with Gareth, who was always so generous with his time and genuinely interested in the project and in me. I was also impressed (and secretly inspired) that he was a ‘Northern lad’ at heart, from Leigh in Lancashire, I recall. The time that I remember most clearly was attending a conference in Munster, Germany. I had lost my Dad a few weeks earlier, and Gareth was so supportive and easy to talk to. Gareth might remember the slightly chaotic trip to the town hall in Munster, with a speech by the Mayor that seemed to go on for days

whilst our welcome drinks went flat on a nearby table. There was also a disagreement between an English and German colleague regarding the translation. Most importantly, with Gareth’s support and despite a significant hangover, I pulled off a half-decent presentation the next day. Gareth encouraged me to submit the paper as a journal article in a special edition. Likewise, following my viva he had encouraged me to publish a book on urban tourism. It is this genuine interest, support, and encouragement that I remember. It’s also the reason why I was actually quite emotional when I explained to my partner Gabriela why I had just received a nice email for once, and how I know Professor Gareth Shaw. (Martin Selby, awarded 2000).

Dr Sohret Basaran Howells - (2000)

I obtained my PhD in year 2000. My supervisors were Alan Williams and Gareth Shaw. They had a different approach to guide me in my PhD which provided a wide perspective. Gareth provided short feedback, but always on-the-spot. Towards the end of my PhD he has been particularly helpful in guiding me in writing my conclusions and recommendations of my two volume 127,000 word long PhD. As a result I passed at first sitting for my viva. Based on his suggestions I also wrote and published three articles. His contributions, though brief have been appreciated. I wish him the best of everything in his future pursuits.

Professor Christian Schott – (2002) Associate Professor, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand

I am part of the Geography PhD cohort supervised by the amazing team of Gareth & Allan (Williams). One of their earlier PhD students once described this supervisory team as something like the Shaw & Williams ‘race horse stable’. I was part of this great supervisor team 1998-2002 and worked for Gareth and Allan’s TRC as a (the) Research Assistant as part of my scholarship. It was a fantastic time, both academically and personally, and I cherished the opportunities and challenges that came with being Gareth’s PhD student, RA as well as Teaching Assistant. In addition to the RA work on endless visitor surveys around the West Country, I particularly enjoyed being Gareth’s TA on Geography fieldtrips, which I am sure he and Allan remember faintly. These fieldtrips were both hard work but also great fun and I brought this Geography tradition into the business school where I still work now in New Zealand – learning in the field is crucial and Geography with Gareth and Allan taught me this.

In addition to being a very knowledgeable, patient and inspiring supervisor that coached me through a not always easy PhD journey, Gareth really stands out as someone who cares about his students. It is tremendous when I think back now that he stored my belongings at his house while I was overseas for a few months. Having had several PhD students myself now I realise just how much he did to support his PhD students in all respects; and of course much of that has influenced my own approach to my Master and PhD supervision.

I wish Gareth all the best and a HUGE congratulation on his 100th PhD student!

Prof Nikolaos Boukas (2004) – Professor of Tourism Marketing, European University Cyprus

Gareth was one of my two supervisors in my PhD during 2005-2008. I will always remember him for his calm, modest and patient approach that helped me not being overwhelmed with my studies. Furthermore, his expertise and knowledge on my topic provided an enriched insight that aided me in my academic advancement. Overall, Gareth contributed to my development both as a researcher as well as a person. For all these qualities, I would like to sincerely express my gratitude and I wish all the best to him!

With my warm regards, Nikolaos Boukas

Dr Sue Rodway-Dyer – (2004) – Senior Research Fellow and Lecturer, University of Bristol

It seems like a long time ago when I first met Gareth along with Des Walling in March 2000 to discuss applying for joint NERC/ESRC funding for a PhD…..interdisciplinarity…who’d have thought it! In a department where never the twain of physical and human geography should meet, Gareth and Des were both progressive and encouraging. Now multidisciplinary research is forefront within academia.

The second I met Gareth I knew that he would always be supportive and would make the roller coaster ride of doing a PhD fun. I was right, he does, and always with smiles. It is amazing how quickly I learnt about university politics, the history of the department, and what lecturing ‘used to be like in the old days’.

He helped to throw me in at the deep end, wanting me to present on my work within weeks of starting. We also had the awful situation of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), when all field sites were understandably shut right at the start of the PhD. We calmly adapted, taking the opportunity to research on the impacts of FMD to visitors in Devon, which resulted in a paper that has since been referenced within Covid research.

After my viva I was told that I had very effectively completed two inter-twinned PhDs. There is no way that would have been possible except for having two very different, but perfectly complementary supervisors. Gareth’s humour, positivity, and very gentle guidance made me feel very lucky. He helped in many many ways, from providing opportunities and contacts to get into lecturing, to participation on wonderful memorable field trips, to helping nurture friendships with mentors. A big thank you Gareth

Sue Rodway-Dyer

Victoria Hurth (2005)

Well done on reaching 100! You always said it was a personal goal. I remember our many and varied discussions about sustainability and marketing – in our variously persistent ways we had a lot of fun ironing many disciplinary angles out. Thank you for giving me the bandwidth I needed to create a distinct problem focused thesis that has been the foundation of the work for a sustainable future I continue to drive for.

- Victoria.

Graham Busby (2006)

Memories of Gareth Shaw as doctoral supervisor include many good suggestions besides much badinage (emphasis, much) in the tearoom. In fact, as I write this, examples come flooding back. Just to cite one, around 2002, an academic colleague known to both of us (not at Exeter!) had just published another book and Gareth quickly dismissed it as a mere ‘pot boiler’ although one that might garner reasonable royalties.

Gareth’s breadth of knowledge was of great benefit to my research and, I’m sure, resulted in progress being made very smooth. The University of Exeter were lucky to have had somebody with a wide range of skills which were deployed to significant positive effect with so many students.

Professor Maharaj Vijay Reddy – (2007) Associate Dean, University of Wolverhampton

Professor Gareth Shaw’s knowledge, research and scholarship are globally known. Needless to mention I have learned a lot from Gareth who helped not just for PhD completion and to shape a successful career but also to nurture and develop hundreds of other PhD students in the UK and overseas universities. He has supervised very many PhD students from around the world. The legacy of Professor Gareth Shaw and the trickle-down global impact of his PhD students will continue for generations. May his life journey be full of good health and happiness to keep sending the positive vibes our way. “The sun never sets on Gareth’s knowledge empire”.

Rebekka Goodman (2006) - Associate Teaching Professor, Arizona State University

He is an exceptional mentor and person. I remember my time at Exeter and working with Gareth so fondly. I am grateful for the opportunity to work with him and for the guidance he gave me in completing my PhD.

Dr Jan Mosedale (2007) – University of Applied Sciences of the Grisons, Switzerland

When I started my PhD adventure, I was unsure of what to expect from Gareth. However, I could not have wished for a better supervisor. He provided hands-off, yet critical feedback, which allowed for personal and academic growth. Gareth’s approach fostered an open environment for discussion, where ideas could flourish, and perspectives could be challenged. He struck a perfect balance between being supportive and critical, ensuring that I learned to navigate the complexities of research.

Gareth exemplifies the ideal approach to both research and supervision. He encourages learning by asking questions and guided me to explore different angles and solutions. Our relationship was characterized by its horizontal nature, with mutual respect, and in which collaboration could thrive.

Under his guidance, I not only grew as a researcher but also as a critical thinker. His influence has left an indelible mark on my academic journey, shaping the way I approach challenges and the way I mentor others. Gareth’s celebration of his 100th PhD student is a testament to his dedication, wisdom, and impact on the academic community. Thank you, Gareth!

Feng Yi Huang – (2008)

Back in early 2004 I began my PhD journey with Professor Gareth Shaw, he had been a great companion and mentor guiding me through the journey. I not only learnt academic skills but also invaluable life experience during the process. The only downside was I felt sorry when its all finished! I have missed the time and Professor Shaw’s warm, witty jokes and laid back supervision style.

Dr Jamie Dallen (2008) – Transport Planning and Policy Senior Planner, West Sussex County Council

Hello Gareth – it is an amazing achievement for you to have supervised now your 100th PhD student and I am honoured to have been 1 of them. I thoroughly enjoyed studying at Exeter under your guidance, and I have very fond memories of this time. I am forever grateful to you and Allan for the opportunity and faith you showed in me, which enabled me to grow as a person both professionally and personally, and which has put me in good stead for my future career. I will remember this time as a lot of fun too – a very memorable field trip to Newquay in my early days under your supervision was something that stands out in particular! I wish you many congratulations on this incredible achievement, very best wishes,

- Jamie Dallen

Dr

Michael Pearn

(2009) – Freelance Social Care Trainer, Plymouth University

Gareth supervised my PhD with Stewart Barr. I first met Gareth in spring 2004. He was instantly welcoming, not only towards me, but showed a genuine interest in my personal assistants. This rapport endured throughout my five years at Exeter University.

Gareth has extensive knowledge of disability both personally and academically. A perspective of my research focused on disabled access and I have fond memories of shared experiences concerning societal attitudes towards people with disabilities.

I feel very honoured to be one of Gareth’s 100 PhD students.

Lysiane Den Breejen – 2008

Dear Gareth, Sitting in your office all those years ago as a second year Tourism undergraduate marked the start of you guiding me through my academic development. I valued your experience and guidance through my undergraduate dissertation, the MSc and finally as my PhD supervisor. Your encouragement and belief in the concept of my thesis played a big part in me pursuing funding and being able to go ahead with my studies. I greatly appreciate the opportunities you extended to me throughout my postgraduate years and after. There was lots of fun and humour along the way!

When Jamie and I married, we were very pleased that you and Margaret were able to come and share in our special day. Congratulations on this magnificent milestone!

- Best wishes, Lysiane

Dr Sotiroula Liasidou – 2009 – Assistant Professor, Cyprus University of Technology

I had the privilege of being a PhD student of Professor Shaw from February 2006 to February 2009. Within three years, I completed my PhD because of the professor’s excellent guidance, inspiration and supervision. Besides being an outstanding academic, Professor Shaw was approachable and always willing to help. After graduation, Professor Shaw kindly provided references to support my applications for academic positions, which I successfully obtained. The contribution of Professor Coles, my other supervisor, to my PhD completion journey should also be acknowledged. I take this opportunity to congratulate Professor Shaw for inspiring and supporting 100 students to complete their PhDs. I am sure all the students are proud of having him as their supervisor and will join me in congratulating Professor Shaw on his academic achievements and excellent academic leadership.

Dr Pimprae Buddhichiwin (2013) – Suratthani Rajabhat University, Thailand

I had the privilege of being under your supervision from January 2012 to August 2016. Throughout my time under your guidance, you were extremely supportive and showed great kindness to me. Despite your busy schedule, you always made time for me whenever I needed a brief meeting to discuss my thesis. Every time we met, you answered my questions and gave me new ideas for writing up my thesis. You taught me to believe in myself and were always encouraging, telling me “Pimprae, you can do it”. It is my honour to have been one of the 100 Ph.D. students you supervised.

- Pimprae Buddhichiwin

Ass. Prof Dr Ilke Kocamaz – (2013) Ass. Professor Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey

Dear Gareth, You have been such a powerful light for me during my extremely difficult PhD period. I really don’t know if I would have been able to succeed without your recommendations, when I was feeling lost during my PhD thesis period. Thank you very much for your kind attention, your dedication to your students and offering your wisdom and love unconditionally.

Last week I have learned that I have become an Associate Professor Dr. finally, and I naturally owe very much to you for this happy occasion. Hope I will be able to pass on your wisdom to my dear students and colleagues as well.

If you ever visit Turkey, also our Marmara University, I’d be more than happy to see you and take you around, make you get in touch with our colleagues and students.

Wish you the best for the rest of your life.

Stay safe and happy. Kind regards and lots of love from Istanbul.

- Ilke Kocamaz

Dr Paul Cleave (2012) – Independent Research Professional and Honorary Research Fellow, University of Exeter

I feel very privileged to have been one of Professor Gareth Shaw’s PhD students. From the first discussion of my proposal, it was his expertise, advice, support, and patience which inspired me and my research. He has a special skill in motivating students throughout their PhD partnership, and encouraging when there might have been difficulties.

Congratulations on your great achievement, and contribution to the PhD community.

Kristyna Bicikova – (2012) – Distance Learning Associate Lecturer, Anglia Ruskin University

In 2008, during my time as an MSc student, I embarked on a journey that would shape the course of my academic and personal growth. It all began in Gareth’s Tourist Behaviour classes, where his passionate teaching sparked my curiosity for research in this field. Immersing myself in his wealth of authored materials, I became captivated by the subject matter, eventually choosing it for my MSc dissertation. Little did I know then that this decision would pave the way for my PhD research over the next three years. And what a brilliant time it was! Gareth’s passion for research was contagious, and he was always so easy to talk to. Despite his considerable achievements, he remained approachable and downto-earth, serving as a role model to me. His willingness to share amusing anecdotes from his travels to former Czechoslovakia reflected his genuine care and support. I am forever grateful to Gareth and Tim for their guidance, which has not only shaped my academic and professional journey but also profoundly influenced me as a person.

Dr Kristyna Bicikova (née Marcevova)

Paul Cleave and Kristyna Bicikova

Dr Yan Wen-Thornton (2013) – Senior Lecturer, University of Exeter

As one of your former PhD students from the years 2009 to 2013, I wanted to take this opportunity to express my gratitude and admiration for the invaluable guidance and support you provided throughout my doctoral journey.

Working under your supervision was truly a transformative experience for me. Your expertise, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence inspired me to push the boundaries of my research and strive for academic excellence. Your insightful feedback, constructive criticism, and encouragement played a pivotal role in shaping my intellectual growth and development.

Beyond your role as a supervisor, your mentorship went above and beyond, fostering a supportive and nurturing environment conducive to learning and collaboration. Your willingness to listen, mentor, and share your knowledge and expertise enriched my academic experience and instilled in me a lifelong passion for research and higher education.

As I reflect on my time as your student, I am filled with profound gratitude for the impact you have had on my academic and professional journey. Your mentorship has left an indelible mark on my personal and professional development.

Thank you, Gareth, I am proud to be one of your 100 PhD students.

With sincere appreciation and warm regards, Yan

Dr Emmanouil Papavasilou – (2013) – Research Fellow in HRM, Hellenic Mediterranean University

Versatile: Cambridge dictionary definition is “able to change easily from one activity to another or able to be used for many different purposes”

In December 2013, I submitted my PhD thesis “Work values across generations - A study of the Greek hotel workforce”. Gareth returned back the document and said, “You are not submitting a thesis for a PhD in hospitality management” “Hospitality is the context of your management study”. “You are submitting a PhD in Management Studies” I said but I want a PhD in Hospitality and he replied, “Management Studies is versatile”

As per Gareth’s request, I now have a PhD in Management Studies, and this made all the difference in my career. So, every time I hear the word versatile; I remember of Gareth. A supervisor who always had time for me regardless the teaching load, the Horizon projects and the papers in Annals of Tourism and Tourism Management.

I don’t know what to keep from him, the double three-digit number of publications and PhD students or the fact that every person I met, when I said that Gareth was my supervisor, gave me a genuine smile?

Julie Wooller – (2014), Senior Economic Development Officer, Somerset Council

Congratulations Gareth – 100 PhD supervisions what an amazing achievement! Although not surprising as you were an exceptional supervisor, providing just the right level of critique, support and guidance when needed. Truly inspirational – here’s to another

Efharisto !!!

Maria

Joao Ferreira Custodio (2014), Universidade

do Algarve

Having Prof. Gareth Shaw as PhD supervisor was a great luck and privilege for me. During the route of my PhD, his open spirit, and the rigor he imposes sprinkled with a unique humour, the much I learned from him, made me wish that my PhD would never end. But fortunately, it come to an end, with Gareth we know that’s a commitment. Thank you, Gareth. Friendship, that will be forever!

Neil Ormerod – (2014), Universidade Do Algarve

Dear Gareth, congratulations!

I was so pleased to hear from Heather that your 100th PhD student will soon be graduating. It is an incredible achievement and one that always comes to mind when supervising my own PhD students. Whilst the number is outstanding, it is of course the 100 people it represents and their stories, ambition, determination, and future successes that are the important characteristics and legacies of this achievement. This is where I feel your talents as a supervisor shine through, notably your recognition that PhD students come from all walks of life, and as long as they possess the necessary foundational elements and commitment, you know that with the correct support all can achieve their PhD goal.

In my case, despite having spent several years away from academia I knew from my first meeting with you and Professor Tim Coles that if I engaged in the supervision process and worked hard, I would complete my PhD. I am sure your other 99 students felt a similar confidence boost under your supervision. I also remember a conversation with another of your students who was close to completion and looking for their first academic job, they told me that your advice to them was, “work hard and be nice to people”, such a simple but effective message that no doubt has stood them in good stead, it is certainly one I have tried to embody in my career too.

Returning to your record, on the rare occasions you mentioned the count, it was clear that this endeavour was a source of great personal pride. Our first conversation was at the start of my PhD when you kindly loaned me a completed thesis so I could see what I was aiming for. As a new PhD student, seeing the rows of completions on your bookshelf was a profoundly motivating image that stuck with me throughout my PhD. So it was with immense pride that our second conversation occurred when I visited your office to present you with my published thesis, (what I believed to be number 82), to add to your collection on the same groaning bookcase! On this occasion, I remember you light-heartedly commenting that you were a bit concerned as you had recently counted your completions and you were a little behind where you thought you were! Clearly, you have had no problem catching up!

Regardless of whether the 100 completions means that you are now contemplating retirement as you once remarked, or whether there are more completions ahead, I want to end by saying that it was a pleasure being supervised by you, your guidance contributed enormously to my wonderful experience at Exeter, the knowledge I gained from you continues to be passed to other students, and my PhD has opened doors to successes that I could never have imagined.

Yuri Kork – (2014)

“While presenting rewarding opportunities for investigation, my PhD topic provided a considerable number of challenges, as there was very limited number of studies available to use as a guide when designing the research methodology. Gareth used his knowledge and expertise to help me design the research in a most efficient way so it could be used as a basis for further research, collect diverse, rich, credible and accurate data while at the same time be comparable to the previous studies and feasible in terms of time and cost. It is important to report that such efforts were most fruitful, as the research results have been very well received at a number of international conferences. I am especially grateful for Gareth’s flexibility in supervision sessions, as the schedule did not only allow me to work at a comfortable pace, but also to accommodate a large number of trips I have made to visit my family during my studies. In addition to the support and supervision of the research stages, Gareth provided me with help and advice when I was dealing with specific problems in the progression of my PhD. research. In one instance, the research failed to collect the predicted response numbers during the allocated time for data collection, and Gareth advised me on more efficient possible alterations to the data collection procedures to counteract this problem (which was successfully achieved). Another critical problem of the research was at the later stage, when serious issues were detected with the quality of the proof-reading of the thesis. Such linguistic problems are difficult to detect and evaluate if English is not your first language, and I relied on Gareth’s continuous help and support when determining whether the thesis was properly prepared for submission. The enthusiasm Gareth has for his profession and supervision in particular served as a symbol of what I wanted my own future in Academia to be similar to, which provided comfort and resolve during the critical time in my research when I questioned my reasons for doing it. Not only did Gareth helped me to shape my future research interests and research directions with his advice, he is continuously supporting me in my efforts to get a permanent lecturing position. Gareth is kind, supportive and motivating with opinion and advice on any arising matter, be it a research, teaching or personal issue, and I do feel privileged that I was lucky enough to have him as my supervisor.”

Mona Alharbi (2015)

“It is with great pleasure to nominate Prof Gareth Shaw in recognition of his outstanding leadership and efforts in creating a supportive and inspirational research environment. What makes Prof Gareth different from other supervisors is that he treats each student as an individual case with different needs, taking into consideration the differences in cultural and educational background between the UK and where students come from. Prof. Gareth supported me through all the stages of my research both technically as well as personally. He had great patience with me because it took me a while to transform my traditional school of thinking (taught in my home country) into a more critical and creative way. This positive impact has occurred because of his effective way of supervision, frequent meetings and valuable comments.”

Sara Brando Albino – (2015)

There is no words to describe it. If it wasn’t for him, l would have not completed my thesis successfully, as it was a difficult project involving two universities. Gareth was keen in showing a path of research, but not in demanding it. I always felt that l had intellectual autonomy and that he was there to show the different paths and ways of restructuring my work. Gareth Shaw tries to understand students and we learn a lot with him. If l would also think of a word that describes his work is ethics.

All the best and l hope to see you in a near future.

Man Tat Cheng (Eddy) – (2015)

If I had to pick what I remember the most about Gareth, it must be that he often said to me: ‘don’t work too hard’, although I never felt I worked hard compared to many in the same PhD room. I am sure many of Gareth’s students had heard about that too. He hoped that we were all healthy and felt supported in what could be a tedious journey. But Gareth himself was one of the most diligent professors. I have witnessed how he saved two PhD students who were lost and helpless before they had Gareth taking them halfway through their study. They became motivated and confident to cross the finishing line, and they did it successfully. As for myself, when I look back the time when Gareth and Adrian, the other supervisor, debating my work in long sessions, I felt how fortunate I was to have two supervisors offering their honest and critical views. I felt very privileged to be one of the one hundred (and many more?).

Maslin Buaban (2013 - 2016)

Gareth Shaw was not only my Ph.D supervisor but also my idol. Because of him, I had a great deal of inspiration and energy. His great supervision enabled me to complete my Ph.D in only two and half years! He supported me to create an effective thesis model. This model can be applied to my research work in Thailand. This was especially effective for communitybased tourism and local sustainable development. Local communities which I worked with in Thailand received many benefits from my thesis model. These included financial benefits as well as improving life in the communities where I worked. Without Gareth, these projects would not have been so successful!

Rhodri Thomas (2016)

I revered your work for many years so was delighted when you accepted me as a PhD student. Your feedback was always helpful and your reassurance very welcome! Congratulations Gareth on your 100th PhD completion – what a wonderful achievement! I feel very proud to be part of this group.

Apostolos Ampountolas (2016)

“I am indebted to my father for living, but to my teacher for living well.” This quote from Alexander the Great highlights the profound influence of mentors in our lives.

Professors play a pivotal role not only in shaping our academic experience but also in fostering our personal growth. I am deeply grateful for the guidance, mentorship, and unwavering support that Professor Gareth Shaw has provided throughout my academic journey. His wisdom and knowledge are invaluable gifts, and I consider myself fortunate to have Gareth as a mentor and a friend. I sensed this connection from our initial meeting in Exeter to discuss the thesis proposal. Our bond, forged through shared experiences and mutual respect, is something I deeply treasure. I couldn’t have asked for, or even imagined, a better mentor.

As the saying goes, “We are standing on the shoulders of giants,” and this best describes the transformative impact that exceptional mentors like Gareth have on the academic lives of their mentees. His guidance has not only shaped my academic journey but has also profoundly influenced my personal growth, making me a better individual.

Hongqin Li – (2016)

Huge congratulations on completing the supervision of 100 PhD students! What a great achievement! I still recall the day of my viva when you showed me to the room. Time just flies by! Thanks for EVERYTHING!

All the very best wishes and take good care, Hongqin

Polina Nikolaou – (2016)

Prof. Gareth Shaw accepted me under his supervision and provided me with the guidance to successful completion of my doctorate thesis. He taught me the tools and techniques of not only the research process but how to go on and supervise others in my career. I am forever grateful for his vision and support in my work, lessons which I still carry with me today and I’m sure the other 99 graduates would agree.

- Polina Nikolaou

Dr Hadeel Al-Maaitah – (2017) Assistant Professor, Hashemite University

There’s no denying that my PhD had its fair share of hurdles. There was a period of selfdoubt and setbacks that threatened to derail me from achieving my goal. But through it all, Gareth remained a beacon of patience and understanding. He never dismissed my struggles; instead, he listened and offered reassurance. His belief in my potential, even when I wavered, kept me going.

Gareth is an incredibly kind and encouraging person. He fostered a positive environment where constructive criticism was delivered with empathy, and his impact goes far beyond academic achievements; he shapes lives and inspires a love for learning. I am incredibly fortunate to have been supervised by such a phenomenal individual.

Dr Tim Taylor, Prof Shaw, Dr Hadeel Al-Maatah and Prof Carlos Ferreira

I am reaching out to you with a heart full of gratitude and admiration for a milestone that is about to be celebrated within our academic community. I have recently come to know that Professor Gareth is nearing the remarkable achievement of guiding his 100th PhD student to graduation. This momentous occasion is not just a testament to his dedication but also a beacon of inspiration for many, including myself, as a fresh lecturer.

My journey to earning my PhD was fraught with challenges, including changes in supervision that could have derailed my academic aspirations. It was during this tumultuous period that Professor Gareth, with his unparalleled kindness and academic rigor, accepted me under his guidance. Despite being my second supervisor, he assumed full responsibility for my supervision, a role he undertook with the utmost seriousness and dedication. My first supervisor, Olga, had entrusted me to his care, making him the primary architect of my academic success during the years 2014-2017.

Professor Gareth’s commitment to his students is nothing short of extraordinary. Managing to supervise over 15 PhD students simultaneously, he never wavered in his dedication, meticulously reviewing every part of our work and providing invaluable advice. His punctuality and keenness on maintaining schedules have set a standard of professionalism and earnestness that I deeply admire.

It is my sincere wish to express my gratitude and congratulations to him on this incredible achievement. Although I regret that this message comes a bit delayed and I missed the initial announcement, I am hopeful that my sentiments can still contribute to the celebration of his dedication and impact on all of us.

Looking forward, I am eager to visit next year and personally convey my congratulations and appreciation to Gareth. He embodies the true essence of a professor in my eyes, and I am immensely grateful for his guidance and support throughout my PhD journey.

Meiying Chen – (2017)

Heather Makin; Olga Kalinowska-Beszczynska; Dr Boyi Li, Gareth Shaw; Meiying Chen, Prof Simon James

Junxiong Li (Shawn) – (2018)

Congratulations on the remarkable achievement of graduating 100 PhD students! We are incredibly grateful and proud to be part of this esteemed community. Thank you for your dedication and hard work. You are a true trailblazer, akin to the Flying Scotsman, leading a cohort of 100 accomplished doctors who are making significant contributions to the world. Here is a poem for you, I wrote in Chinese: 桃李飘香满地开，

“In fragrant bloom, peach and plum trees sway, Teacher’s grace shines, in myriad ways they sway. With age, strength renewed, a brilliant array, Wisdom uplifts, spirits bright, every day”.

Gareth Shaw; Dr Ben Ramdani; Prof Stewart Barr; Junxiong (Shawn) Li; Prof Heather Hartwell

Fatemah Mohd K (2017)

Guiding almost 100 students towards PhD completion is a milestone that can only be reached by a leader. This is how I perceive Professor Shaw; a leader who enhanced my PhD through solid support and sound guidance.

D. Scott Borden (2017)

My experiences at Exeter included having two PhD advisors. Professor Shaw, you were compassionate, thoughtful, and supportive. While the other advisor displayed the opposite of these traits. While my struggles with the other advisor increased, this only increased your efforts to be the ‘wise sage’ and mentor I needed. Stead and driven to be your best, you have continued to be an inspiration for my own work. As a mentor of students myself now, I aim to bring the same amount of humility and thoughtfulness to those interactions. Additionally, you found me resources to travel to Italy for an interactive cohort experience and steered me towards my passion of social marketing. Thank you for everything you have done for me and those lucky other 99 PhD students.

Chris Dutt (2017)

Gareth, congratulations on your 100th PhD graduate, that is a remarkable accomplishment, and I am proud and honoured to be one of those 100! Your approach to our discussions was also so calm and well thought out that now I still think about the approach you would take to help me. The fact that you have been able to approach all your work with such care, calmness, and insight is truly inspiring and encouraging. You are an inspiration to all of us. Thank you!

Alessandra Theuma (2019)

You have reached 100... in student numbers of course!

Sincere congratulations! I would like to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt gratitude and admiration on this remarkable milestone. This is surely a testament to the sterling work that you perform in guiding doctoral students throughout their journey. I have nothing short of gratitude and appreciation for the understanding and dedication that you have shown towards me throughout the time that I was undertaking my research. Even when we met bumps (or dare I say unsurmountable mountains) along the road, and when the challenges were real, your kindness, unwavering encouragement and your genuine concern saw no limits. You were always there for me, and for this, I thank you over and over again.

May your journey continue to be filled with success, fulfilment and the joy of shaping the minds and paths of many future generations.

With gratitude, Sandra

Fujia Li (Cliff) – (2019)

Gareth holds a significant role in helping me achieve my PhD while I was transitioning between supervisors. I can still remember my very first meeting with Gareth which was super reassuring – we set out a good plan and I received very clear expectations and instructions. Since I started working under Gareth’s supervision, I was able to write my thesis in a very productive way. I cannot imagine what could have happened to my PhD had Gareth not stepped in and taken the supervisory lead for the latter part of it. I am therefore forever indebted to Gareth and Heather for their incredible support and guidance.’

Khalid Almubark and Abrar Alhomaid (2019)

We would like to express our deepest gratitude to Professor Gareth Shaw for his invaluable guidance, support, and mentorship throughout the course of our research. His expertise and insights have been instrumental in our academic journey, and we profoundly thankful for his contribution to our success, as husband and wife. Furthermore, we extend our heartfelt appreciation to the University of Exeter, specifically the School of Business and Economics, and all its esteemed staff. The opportunity to engage in scientific research within such a vibrant and supportive community has been a great privilege and has significantly contributed to our receipt of this prestigious scientific award. We especially grateful for the opportunity to interact with and learn from a distinguished scholar and expert in scientific research like Professor Gareth Shaw. This experience has been enlightening and has significantly enriched our academic experience. The environment at the University of Exeter has been instrumental in fostering our academic achievements and in enhancing our commitment to the pursuit of knowledge. For this, and for the countless opportunities and support we have received, we are eternally grateful.

From: Saudi Arabia, Dr.Khalid Almubark & Dr.Abrar Alhoumaid

Abrar Alhomaid and Khalid Almubark

Nural Hishamuddin – (2019)

As an international student, when looking for a PhD supervisor is always about reading about their achievement and publications. Not knowing about how the person would be.

First time meeting him, he is very friendly and always teaches me new things. I remember when he wanted me to write a literature review chapter, he said to me “Write the chapter as if you would like to describe to a native person about a pencil. What is a pencil? What is the usage of a pencil?”. I always remember his advice and I always mentioned the same thing to my students.

Thank you, Gareth! Congratulations on your 100th student achievement!

Nina Van Volkinburg – (2021)

I could not have asked for a better experience in pursuing my PhD - yes I loved my subject area and topic, but what shaped my life personally and professionally was the close collaboration with my 2 brilliant supervisors Dr. Alex Thompson and Prof. Gareth Shaw. After almost 3 years, our small PhD team felt (still feels!) like family. Gareth’s humour and kindness allowed me to feel comfortable asking questions, experiment with new ideas, and build confidence in myself. He cares so deeply for students and it is really touching to think about all of the lives all around the world he has positively impacted. His academic contributions to his field speak for themselves, but I will always cherish our upbeat conversations of connecting his body of work with my ethnographic research in the fashion industry - how fun to find connections between geography and the catwalk! I am beyond grateful to call Gareth a mentor, and will continue to do my best to create work in and outside of the classroom he is hopefully proud of.

Thank you so much, Gareth for everything!

Dr Alex Thompson and Nina Van Volkinburg

Dear Prof. Gareth,

I cannot express enough gratitude for the invaluable opportunity to work under your guidance! Your mentorship, kindness, and inspiration have meant the world to me I consider myself truly fortunate to have had you as my supervisor Thank you immensely, Prof Gareth Shaw

Munira Mhd Rashid March2024

Congratulations on this incredible milestone of having graduated 100 PhD students. I know from my time as your PhD student how helpful, kind, and understanding you are while sharing your expertise and knowledge, and I am truly grateful for your mentorship, encouragement, and support. Thank you!

Munira Mhd Rashid (2021)

Elif Vozar (nee Soytoprak) – (2021)

Nur Shirah Binti Mior Shariffuddin and Muaz Bin Azinuddin – (2019)

We wanted to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude for your invaluable support and guidance throughout our PhD journey. Your support for us as a family - with little Mushira in tow - has meant the world. It’s not easy juggling research and family life, but you made it seem like a breeze with your understanding and encouragement.

Remember those times when we’d finish a chapter? You’d be like, “Go on, treat yourselves! Take a break, go travel!” And we did take your advice! Those trips weren’t just vacations; they were fuel for our brains, preparing us for the next challenge.

Your mentorship has shaped us not only as scholars but also as individuals, and for that, we are truly grateful.

Looking ahead, we dream of the opportunity to welcome you to Malaysia one day. It would be an honour to show you our home and extend the same warmth and hospitality that you have shown us.

Once again, thank you, Gareth, for everything. We are incredibly fortunate to have had you as our supervisor and mentor.

Wan Mohd Adzim Bin Wan Mohd Zain, Muaz Bin Asinuddin and Nur Sharhirah Binti Mior Shariffuddin

Ali Akkak (2021)

It is with immense gratitude and heartfelt appreciation that I write this testimonial for Prof. Gareth Shaw. Prof. Shaw served as my supervisor during my transformative journey pursuing a PhD in Tourism Management at the University of Exeter Business School over the course of five enriching years (Sept. 2026 - Dec. 2021).

From the outset, Prof. Shaw exhibited unwavering support and enthusiasm for my academic pursuits. I distinctly recall the moment I reached out to him in March 2016 to express my interest in having him as my supervisor. Without hesitation, he welcomed me with open arms, recognizing the opportunity to mentor a student from Oman, a region underrepresented in his academic sphere. This initial gesture of acceptance and inclusivity set the tone for our continuing collaborative relationship.

Throughout my tenure at the University, Prof. Shaw consistently demonstrated his commitment to my academic and professional development. Our monthly meetings, whether conducted in-person or online, provided invaluable opportunities for constructive guidance and feedback. Prof. Shaw’s keen insights, meticulous attention to detail, and genuine passion for scholarship propelled me to push the boundaries of my research and strive for excellence.

Beyond his academic expertise, Prof. Shaw’s unwavering support and encouragement were instrumental in my navigating the challenges of a PhD. His mentorship extended far beyond the confines of academia, which I am still very thankful.

Prof. Shaw, words cannot adequately express the depth of my gratitude for the pivotal role you have played in shaping my PhD journey. Your unwavering dedication, kindness, and mentorship have left an indelible mark on my academic and professional trajectory. I am eternally grateful for your guidance, support, and belief in my potential.

As I embark on the next chapter of my academic career, I carry with me the invaluable lessons and insights gleaned from our collaboration. Prof. Shaw, I extend my sincerest wishes for continued success and fulfillment in all your endeavors. Thank you for being not only a supervisor but also a mentor, advocate, and friend.

With profound gratitude and warm regards, Dr. Ali Akaak

Gareth Shaw; Ali Akkak and Dr Ian Hipkin

Latifah Almughayribi (2024)

Professor Gareth Shaw’s guidance and mentorship have greatly enriched my PhD journey. He is an exceptional PhD supervisor. His invaluable support has been instrumental in my success. I was lucky to have such a great supervisor like GARETH.

All the Best, Latifah

Areej Alosaimi (2024)

I am privileged to be one of Professor Gareth’s students and to contribute to the Book of Testimonials in his honour, as he reaches the remarkable milestone of supervising over 100 PhD students.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Professor Gareth has been a constant source of support and guidance. His commitment to his students extends beyond the academic level. He approaches us with compassion and understanding, fully recognizing the unique challenges we face as individuals.

One of the highlights of our interactions with Professor Gareth during the pandemic has been our virtual morning coffee chats. Despite the physical distance, these online meetings have fostered a sense of solidarity and connection, enabling us to discuss not only our research but also our personal experiences and struggles.

Professor Gareth’s approachability and empathy have been invaluable, particularly during these uncertain times. He consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that we feel heard, supported, and valued.

Beyond his expertise in our respective fields, Professor Gareth creates a nurturing environment where we are encouraged to thrive both academically and personally. His mentorship has been instrumental in shaping our research journeys, and we are deeply grateful for his guidance every step of the way.

Thank you, Professor Gareth, for your dedication, kindness, and unwavering support. You truly exemplify what it means to be an exceptional supervisor.

Majid Alnamlah (2024)

It was at the beginning of 2020 when you hosted me and my wife in your office, and Heather also welcomed us. At the time, I was afraid that I would not be accepted because of the large number of doctoral students that I supervised. But you supported me then and I was given unconditional acceptance. I was truly lucky to be one of your students. I also did not know that this interview, which took place in your office, would not be repeated for more than a year and a half due to the Corona crisis.

The start of my studies with you coincided exactly with the beginning of the Corona crisis in April 2020. After that, many events occurred, including the cancellation of The Boulevard Festival in Riyadh and this caused me horror, because my studies were based on this festival in particular.

I also remember a funny incident: my laptop was running on Saudi time, and when Heather sent me the meeting time, it was 3 hours behind the British time. Luckily Heather realised the problem and emailed me to ask me to check the time settings on my computer, otherwise you would have had an absentee student!

At first, studying at home was difficult, especially since I have 4 children, three of whom study online and the other (one year old) needed constant care. Also, my wife was a doctoral student at the same university, and this increased the burden on us. But soon that period ended, and things returned to normal. Those difficult circumstances we went through became beautiful memories thanks to your support.

I also remember that you helped me after the mini-viva interview, when it was suggested that Saudi citizens who had never attended the Boulevard Festival should have been included in my study. This was a tricky question, and I was grateful for your help in framing an answer that this would require that the levels of well-being of festival visitors be compared with the level of well-being of citizens who refused to attend the festival, which would have significantly changed the objectives and methodology of the study.

I also thank you for your continuous encouragement through the emails you sent me, as well as all the useful feedback.

In conclusion, my PhD would not have been possible without the guidance of Dr Gareth Shaw and the assistance of Dr. Ian Hipkin. Thank you all for your advice, support, patience and encouragement throughout this challenging project, as well as for allowing me the space to develop ideas and improve the quality of my thesis. I also thank the wonderful Ms. Heather Makin for her support and assistance in coordinating and facilitating our meetings. I was very fortunate to have supervisors who took a great interest in my work and answered my questions and concerns. I feel really lucky to have worked with them all these years.

Best wishes, Majid

Huan Zhu (Diana) – (2020 – 2024)

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to my first supervisor, Professor Gareth Shaw. I am so happy that he took a chance on me and allowed me the privilege of being his 102nd PhD student.

In the academic realm, he provided me with ample academic freedom and space for innovation. Many times, he helped me to see ‘the forest’ when I could only see ‘the tree’. His profound academic vision serves as a guiding light for my research. Throughout the four and a half years of my doctoral research journey, what I learned the most was his supervision style, which equipped me with the qualifications to supervise and guide doctoral students in my future career as a supervisor. I am confident that my future academic research will continue to benefit from his guidance.

In terms of character, he is truly a gentleman. The first time I met him was in his office. After our initial meeting, he personally walked me out of his office building’s gate. I still remember him sharing his chewing gums with me. On the day of my PhD final viva, he went upstairs and downstairs to find me, personally accompanying me to the viva room. He displayed the highest courtesy towards me. To my beloved supervisor, Professor Shaw, thank you for always giving me such a warm welcome every time we met.

Now, I am going to continue my academic career under his guidance and valuable advice at the university. I am honoured and fortunate to be a member of his circle of doctoral students, which is a unique academic network composed of outstanding scholars.

Zhu Huan (Diana)

Helen Marshall, nee Rowe, (2002)

I first met Gareth as a fresh-faced undergraduate in 1996 having chosen to study Geography with Social Studies and remember taking Gareth’s Tourism and Economic Development and Retail Studies – ‘the history of Woolworths’ - as part of my undergraduate studies. Gareth reminded me of my Dad, caring, kind, and with a glint in his eye, which hid a mischievous side which I saw many times over the coming years.

My undergraduate dissertation looked at tourism and following that I was persuaded by Gareth to apply for a PhD scholarship in Historical Geography, with himself and Catherine Brace as my supervisors. It’s fair to say the relationship was an interesting one and I vividly recall an intense conversation having written a draft of one chapter as to whether my study should be written in the 1st or 3rd person. With 100,000 words to write this to me seemed a rather fundamental issue to resolve! After quite a debate, Gareth won that argument. I did however throw a curve ball over the colour of my bound thesis, blue as opposed to the library of ‘black’ that adorned his shelves even at that point.

Over the six plus years I knew Gareth he was always supportive, always pushing me to be the best I could be, always willing to chat about either work or the family he so clearly adores and always had his door open if I needed him. My career since my time at Exeter has seen me work in the voluntary, public and private sector, but in some ways I’ve now come full circle, spending the last year teacher training to start as a secondary school Geography teacher in September. I’ve rediscovered the love of my subject that my A level teachers and then Gareth instilled in me and will hopefully inspire more students to study Geography at University. For the first time I will use ‘Dr Marshall’ in my professional career, a permanent link back to very happy times.

Current Students:

Omar Alkhudhayr (2021 – 2024 pending award)

Said Al Kindy – (2020 - )

Dr. Gareth’s supervision has been instrumental in my PhD journey. His positive quality, e.g., patience, encouragement, guidance helped me navigate the challenges of research and positive outcome, e.g., develop critical thinking skills, refine my research focus. I am incredibly grateful for Dr. Gareth’s mentorship and support. His dedication to his students is truly inspiring, and I am confident that the skills and knowledge I have gained under his supervision will be invaluable in my future career.

Professor Shaw embodies a unique blend of qualities that make working under his guidance a truly enriching experience. His compassionate nature is evident in the way he takes a genuine interest in the well-being and development of his students.

His wealth of experience in working with and supervising international students over the years, the understanding of the unique needs and challenges they face, combined with his supportive demeanour creates a nurturing environment where we feel empowered to grow and succeed. He possesses a caring yet direct approach, providing his students with valuable support and guidance throughout their PhD journey.

Thank you Professor for everything. Your dedication is inspiring. Wishing you continuous success.

Sumayya Alsefri (2022 - )

Sumayya Alsefri (2022 - )

Dear Gareth, As one of your current international PhD students, I feel incredibly blessed to be under your guidance at this stage of my academic journey. Your support has been extremely beneficial in navigating both the academic and cultural challenges I' ve encountered far from home.

Dear Gareth, As one of your current international PhD students, I feel incredibly blessed to be under your guidance at this stage of my academic journey. Your support has been extremely beneficial in navigating both the academic and cultural challenges I’ve encountered far from home.

Your expertise and passion for our field are truly inspiring, and your dedication to your students is apparent in every discussion and supervision meeting.

What

Your expertise and passion for our field are truly inspiring, and your dedication to your students is apparent in every discussion and supervision meeting.

What

The milestone of supervising over 100 PhD students is not only a testament to your impact on the academic community but also to the profound influence you have on the lives of your students. It's an honour to be a part of this impressive legacy and to learn from someone who represents what it means to be a true guide and leader in the field.

The milestone of supervising over 100 PhD students is not only a testament to your impact on the academic community but also to the profound influence you have on the lives of your students. It’s an honour to be a part of this impressive legacy and to learn from someone who represents what it means to be a true guide and leader in the field.

Thank you for your continuous support and for the incredible impact you continue to make on my life.

Thank you for your continuous support and for the incredible impact you continue to make on my life.

Said Al Kindy – (2020 - )

Solaiman Almositeer (2021 - )

With profound gratitude, Sumayya

With profound gratitude, Sumayya

Professor Shaw embodies a unique blend of qualities that make working under his guidance a truly enriching experience. His compassionate nature is evident in the way he takes a genuine interest in the well-being and development of his students.

I am thrilled to share my experiences and gratitude as we celebrate Gareth’s impressive milestone of supervising over 100 PhD students. Working with Gareth was a life-changing experience for me. He was not just focused on our academic success but cared deeply about us as people.

His wealth of experience in working with and supervising international students over the years, the understanding of the unique needs and challenges they face, combined with his supportive demeanour creates a nurturing environment where we feel empowered to grow and succeed. He possesses a caring yet direct approach, providing his students with valuable support and guidance throughout their PhD journey.

Thank you Professor for everything. Your dedication is inspiring. Wishing you continuous success.

Tao Duan ( 2022Dear Edward,

Gareth’s guidance was clear and supportive. He always had time to explain things in a way that made sense, which really helped me grow in confidence and skills. His feedback was always constructive, helping me improve my work and think deeper about my research.

Thank you, Gareth, for your patience, wisdom, and kindness. Learning from you has been a major highlight of my journey, and I am very grateful for your support. I am proud to be part of this celebration of your career.

Thank you for letting me know when you will be arriving, and I am very pleased to hear you will be studying in Exeter once you have completed your quarantine period. Whilst you are studying remotely, I will send you details by the end of the week so you ca n look at the material. If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Best wishes,

Gareth

Best wishes, Solaiman Almositeer Best wishes, Solaiman Almositeer

Tao Duan (2022 - )

Dear Edward,

Thank you for letting me know when you will be arriving, and I am very pleased to hear you will be studying in Exeter once you have completed your quarantine period. Whilst you are studying remotely, I will send you details by the end of the week so you can look at the material. If you have any queries, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Best wishes, Gareth

This is an email dated 06 October 2020 and the first email I exchanged with Gareth. My acquaintance with Professor Gareth originated in our master’s class. As this email demonstrates, even during the pandemic, Professor Gareth has always treated every teaching task with seriousness and thoughtfully considered the needs of every student. In our classes, he has always encouraged international students to participate in discussions and share the diversity of tourism industry practices and theories in different countries and regions. After completing my master’s programme at the Business School, I had the pleasure of continuing to work with Professor Gareth on my PhD project. To date we have completed 28 supervisor meetings, and he remains as committed and encouraging as he was the first time. During my PhD, he was not only a professor but also a friend. He not only taught me knowledge, but also answered my questions and provided me with support and experience when I encountered difficulties on my way to becoming a researcher. Congratulations to Professor Gareth on such an impressive achievement! It’s not just 100 PhD students, it’s 100 students whose personal development you have driven with professionalism, it’s our story and a new chapter full of meaning.

Valan Maksaen (2023 - )

It has been an invaluable experience working with you, Dr. Gareth. You are a very kind supervisor who always supports us students, no matter what. I have received numerous opportunities from you that have helped me improve my skills for my future career in academia. I believe that no other professor in the university is as flexible as you are. You allow us PhD students to use your real class to practice giving lectures to other students, with you there to guide us whenever anything goes wrong. Without you, I wouldn’t have been able to build up my academic profile and achieve the scholarship that I have today. Thank you very much for your hard work throughout the years.

Other

contributions:

Fiona Hutchinson (PhD Internal Examiner)

Gareth thanks for supervising 100 PhD-ers to completion. Everyone I knew, including my friends, spoke very highly of your supervision. I enjoyed working with you at Exeter and having you as my internal examiner. Sending you all my best from Edinburgh, Fiona Hutchison

Heather Makin (Personal Assistant - 2006 - )

When I started working with Gareth in January 2006, I never dreamt that I would still be here 18.5 years later. I took on the job thinking that if I didn’t like it (or him), I would give up by the summer and do something else, so I had no expectations that I might actually enjoy it. I had no knowledge of academia and very little idea of what I was letting myself in for, other than ‘a bit of copy typing’. I persevered through the swaths of papers which cascade still to this day from Gareth’s desk and found a path where I could actually help him be a little more organised. It’s always best to let him think it’s his idea though – he is a man after all. I hope I have proved to be a little bit more than just ‘someone who does a bit of word processing for him’.

Over all of these years and the vast number of supervision meetings I have sat through I have witnessed first hand how caring and considerate Gareth is to all of his students. He walks them through a very structured route to their completions and cares deeply about their work, never considering it part of his. He takes interest in everyone of them and watches how they progress in their subsequent careers, not in a selfish or self-gratifying way but with a genuine interest to see them do well.

I have kept records of the students for so long, somehow the numbers came close to 100, but for whatever reason, they kept falling back and so the challenge to get to 100 was a long one with occasional withdrawals but never failures. Gareth’s determination to get anyone through a PhD is admirable and he has so often said ‘there is no such thing as a bad student’. However, despite his pleading for me to be his 100th student I never took up that challenge – something I may live to regret but somehow, I don’t think so. The belief in me that I could, if I wanted to, has made a massive difference to my life and that is all that I needed. He instils confidence both in me and all the students he works with.

I will be forever grateful to Gareth for allowing me to take over his organisation and play such an active role in his work. It has been a pleasure working with him and all of the students, I hope this will continue for many years to come. Congratulations Gareth in doing what you have always said you would like to do and reach 100 PhDs but like every legend on and on you go and your legacy to academia will last longer than many of us. Before I end, I must just add a little saying that has become Gareth’s own, his little adage to all of those who don’t know him and might think he may be considering hanging up his gown: What you are, so I was; What I am, so you will become (if you are lucky)!