Tributes are being paid to the outgoing head of the Shannon College of Hotel Management, who’s retiring after 34 years.
Dr Philip Smyth joined Shannon College in 1988, after a career in the Defence Forces, and successfully guided it to where it is today, a School of the College of Business Public Policy and Law, University of Galway.
During that time the Shannon College of Hotel Management grew its workforce to 40 and student numbers to 450.
University of Galway President, Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh said “Dr Philip Smyth has devoted decades to the teaching and learning of students and his legacy is the reputation for the quality of graduates who come through Shannon College of Hotel Management and work in Ireland and around the world. Our University values of respect, openness, excellence and sustainability are evident in the lived experience in Shannon but more so in the standards which the alumni bring with them on their careers. I wish Phillip a long and enjoyable retirement and thank him for his work.”
Speaking of Dr Smyth’s legacy, incoming Head of School Adrian Sylver said: “Phillip’s contribution to Shannon College of Hotel Management and the hospitality and tourism sector over the last 34 years has been immense. His tenure and leadership has brought the College to where it is today, a School of the College of Business Public Policy and Law, University of Galway.”
Dr Philip Smyth is succeeded by Adrian Sylver, who becomes the fifth Head of School in its 71-year history.
