A UWS professor has been elected to the Fellowship of the Academy of Social Sciences in recognition of the impact of her work on sport, culture and public policy.

Professor Gayle McPherson, Professor of Events and Cultural Policy at UWS, is among 74 leading social scientists joining the Academy’s Fellowship this autumn.

Fellows are chosen through an independent review process for the quality and impact of their work and their contribution to social science for public benefit.

Professor McPherson is one of the world’s leading authorities on sporting and cultural events. During a career spanning more than 30 years, her research has explored how major events can benefit communities, promote inclusion and create lasting social change.

Professor McPherson said: “It is a great honour to be elected as a Fellow of the Academy of Social Sciences.

“Throughout my career, I have researched how sport, events and culture can improve people’s lives, create opportunities and make communities more inclusive.

 

This recognition reflects the importance of research that reaches beyond universities and is developed with communities, policymakers and partner organisations. I look forward to contributing to the Academy’s work and continuing to explore how social science can help address the challenges facing communities in Scotland and around the world.

 

She is co-director of the UWS Centre for Culture, Sport and Events and is Director of Community Engagement and Legacy on the Board of Commonwealth Games Scotland.

Her work explores how major sporting and community events can create lasting social benefits and most recently, Professor McPherson led UWS research into the impact and legacy of the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games and has contributed to debate about what its smaller model could mean for the future of major sporting events.

Professor Ann Luce, Dean of Faculty at UWS, said: “Gayle’s election to the Academy of Social Sciences is a well-deserved recognition of the outstanding contribution she has made to social science.

 

“Her work across sport, culture, disability and public policy consistently reaches beyond academia. It helps organisations and communities understand how sporting and cultural events can become more inclusive and create lasting social value. She is an enormously valued colleague and this Fellowship is a fitting recognition of the reach and impact of her work.

 

The Fellowship brings together around 1,750 leading social scientists working in universities, public services, businesses and charities.

Professor McPherson’s election reflects the aims of UWS Strategy 2030 by recognising research that addresses real-world challenges, supports communities and connects work in Scotland with international impact.