Geoffrey Bird

I am a Professor in the School of Communication and Culture (FSAS) where I have served for three years. Since joining RRU in 2008 I have held various administrative positions, including School Director and Program Head, in the School of Tourism and Hospitality Management (FoM). I have taught subjects such as communication, media and cultural theory, digital communication, memory studies, tourism and heritage, globalization, sustainability, ethics, product development, and methodology.  My research focuses on sites of war memory and the stories they tell; I have researched, directed and produced 35 short documentaries and various commemorative projects since 2015. My work experience prior to RRU includes poverty alleviation, sustainability, strategic planning and provincial education policy and design.  Having served in two faculties (FoM and FSAS) has provided an opportunity for me to better appreciate the opportunities and challenges facing faculty and staff across the University.  Apart from my experience, learning anew is also a theme in my life, reflecting my own journey of adapting to change both personally and professionally. An appointment to Academic Council provides a chance to contribute to the bigger picture in a time of change. This appointment would represent a chance to continue on from my 2022 term.  I hope to have the opportunity to contribute to Academic Council and assist in representing the interests of the faculty.