University supports European awards celebrating rural resilience in memory of former professor

University of Gloucestershire has supported a new European awards ceremony honouring the legacy of former professor, Michael Dower, celebrating the efforts of communities and individuals dedicated to improving rural life across Europe.  

Hosted by Professor Janet Dwyer OBE, the ceremony welcomed 14 representatives from the 8 finalists to the European Rural Parliament in Inverurie, Scotland in October.

Michael, who died aged 88 in November 2022, was appointed Visiting Professor at the University in 1996, where he worked and collaborated closely with its Community and Countryside Research Institute (CCRI) for more than 15 years.

A visionary dedicated to improving living conditions in rural Europe, Michael championed democracy, cohesion, integration, cooperation, and volunteering. His tireless promotion of rural development has inspired communities across the continent for decades.

The Michael Dower Award for Rural Resilience recognises outstanding examples of how local communities and individuals are tackling economic, environmental, and social challenges to build rural resilience. The community and individual award honours those who challenge outdated structures and policies to foster a sustainable future.

At the inaugural ceremony, Knoydart Community (Scotland) won the Community Category, while Vasilis Kostakis (Greece) received the Individual Category award.

Supported by contributions from Michael’s family, friends, and the University, the award aims to continue his mission to strengthen and uplift rural areas across Europe, while fostering collaboration and rebuilding fractured connections.

Professor Janet Dwyer OBE, Professor of Rural Policy at the CCRI, said: “It was a privilege to host the ceremony for the Michael Dower Award for Rural Resilience. It was incredibly powerful to bring together communities and individuals who embody Michael’s legacy – building a resilient, democratic, and sustainable rural Europe.

“The whole team at the CCRI had a tremendous respect for Michael and we are proud to have been a part of the inaugural awards ceremony which we hope can continue to support and inspire rural actors for many years to come.”

Main image: Professor Janet Dwyer OBE presenting the Michael Dower Award ceremony (photo credit: Scottish Rural Action)