The Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers (ASSC) has announced that its Chief Executive, Fiona Campbell MBE, has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate by the University of the West of Scotland (UWS), recognising her outstanding contribution to tourism, public policy, research and advocacy.
Campbell has built a strong relationship with UWS over a number of years, working as a guest lecturer, researcher and collaborator. Through this partnership, she has championed evidence-based decision-making while helping to strengthen connections between academia, industry and government.
The honorary degree acknowledges not only her leadership within Scotland’s self-catering sector, but also her wider commitment to ensuring that research delivers tangible, real-world benefits for businesses and communities.
Speaking about the honour, Fiona Campbell MBE said: “I am deeply honoured to receive this Honorary Doctorate from the University of the West of Scotland. Over the past few years, I have had the privilege of working with UWS as a guest lecturer, researcher and collaborator. Through those experiences, I have seen first-hand the University’s commitment to ensuring that knowledge is not confined to lecture theatres or academic journals, but is used to make a meaningful difference in communities, businesses and people’s everyday lives. That belief in practical impact is something I care deeply about, which makes this recognition particularly special.
“UWS’ commitment to widening opportunity, supporting students from all backgrounds, and using education and research to transform lives is something I have come to value enormously through my work with the University. To be recognised by a university whose values align so closely with my own is both humbling and deeply meaningful.
“Throughout my career, whether in tourism, public policy, research or advocacy, I have been passionate about ensuring that evidence, collaboration and practical solutions sit at the heart of decision-making. I have also been fortunate to work alongside outstanding colleagues, researchers, businesses, policymakers and communities who have shared that commitment. No achievement is ever truly individual.
“I am enormously grateful to the University for this extraordinary honour and for the opportunity to continue supporting its students and wider community. I hope my own journey demonstrates that there is no single path to success. Curiosity, resilience, kindness and a willingness to make a difference can take you to places you never imagined possible.”
Professor James Miller, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of the West of Scotland, praised Campbell’s impact on the sector. He said: “Graduation is one of the most important and celebrated occasions in the University calendar. It marks the culmination of our students’ hard work, determination and success, while also recognising the encouragement and support of their families, friends and the wider UWS community throughout their academic journey.
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“Fiona Campbell MBE has made an outstanding contribution to Scotland’s tourism sector through her leadership, advocacy and commitment to supporting businesses and communities.
“Her work reflects values we hold dear at UWS, including civic engagement and making a social and economic difference.
“We are delighted to recognise Fiona’s achievements with this honorary degree and to celebrate the example she sets for our students and graduates.”
