Prof Eylem Atakav, a Professor of Film, Gender & Public Engagement for the University of East Anglia (UEA), and Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor Global Engagement for the University's School of Art, Media and American Studies, has been recognised for her strategic leadership in the field of international education and public pedagogy, by being named a Principal Fellow of the Advance HE (PFHEA): one of the highest accolades in teaching and learning.
Advance HE is a sector-owned charity that works with institutions and higher education across the world to improve higher education for staff, students and society. The charity has a particular focus on enhancing teaching and learning, effective governance, leadership development, and tackling inequalities.
Prof Atakav said: “I am truly honoured for this recognition and grateful to all those who have supported my journey in international education. I am also very excited about the opportunities Principal Fellowship will afford to represent UEA globally.”
Being named a Principal Fellow represents a prestigious affirmation of Prof Atakav’s academic excellence, but also has the potential of benefitting staff and students in the future.
Prof Atakav said: “I am keen on using this title to scope out further opportunities for colleagues and students in teaching and learning in general, and in international education in particular. The Principal Fellowship allows me to join colleagues who lead impactful strategies, and I hope to continue to influence both the University's strategy, but also promote UEA in ways that will have a deep and lasting benefit impact.”
With only around 1,500 named Principal Fellows around the world, Prof Atakav, who also holds the National Teaching Fellow title from Advance HE, has evidenced her "personal and institutional commitment to professionalism in learning and teaching in higher education" through her work and membership across a diverse range of projects and working groups, including:
- Leading and implementing international education strategy as Chair of the Teaching, Learning and Scholarship Knowledge Community for NAFSA: Association of International Educators – the world’s largest international education association
- Leading the implementation of the International Strategy for UEA as the first ever Associate Dean International for the Faculty of Arts and Humanities, and UEA’s inaugural Associate Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Global Engagement
- Leading change within the academic community through pioneering collaborative and participatory filmmaking projects and innovative methods in public pedagogy
- Leading on the diversity, equity and inclusion initiative to provide access to global education for international students and scholars
