Scholarship Aims to Develop AOD Sector’s Future Leaders

A new scholarship aimed at building leadership and management capacity in the alcohol and other drugs (AOD) sector is inviting applications.

The Foundation for Alcohol Research and Education (FARE) says that the Ian Webster Scholarship recognises Professor Webster’s contributions to the organisation over the last 10 years, as well as the “exceptional leadership” in his work throughout the Not for Profit sector.

The Scholarship will be awarded each year to an applicant who has demonstrated a long term commitment to the AOD sector and will provide $10,000 towards a program of study, independently led research, or personal development opportunities.

FARE says that rather than financially supporting undergraduate or postgraduate students, the Scholarship is designed specifically to target people currently working within the sector, who would otherwise have few opportunities to apply for such financial assistance.

Professor Webster was the FARE Board’s inaugural Chair from 2001 until 2009 and continued as a board member until 2011. He is currently a Consultant Physician in the Shoalhaven area, Emeritus Professor of Public Health and Community Medicine at the University of New South Wales, and Chief Patron of the Alcohol and other Drugs Council of Australia.

FARE chief executive, Michael Thorn, says the new scholarship is a wonderful opportunity to recognise Professor Webster.

“Few, if any, have made such a valuable contribution to the sector. Professor Webster’s passion, leadership and dedication to his work exemplify the values we seek to promote and foster,” Thorn said.

“It is most fitting that the Scholarship will provide an individual with the opportunity to develop their ability to become a successful leader in the sector.”

FARE said that applications will close at 5.00pm Saturday June 30, 2012. Application forms are available at www.fare.org.au

At the launch event, Professor Webster said he was honoured by the creation of the scholarship, and applauded FARE’s ongoing commitment to ensuring the sector remains robust into the future.

“The complex challenges we face today from the use and misuse of alcohol and other drugs are ongoing,” Webster said.

“While the new scholarship is a great personal honour, more importantly, it is a valuable opportunity to encourage the growth and development of the people who will face these challenges and lead the alcohol and drug sector into the future.”