The Association of Event Venues (AEV) has partnered with the University of Greenwich to create a new Associate Academic status for higher education institutions.
The partnership will aim to put academic collaboration with the sector on a “formal footing” and provide a framework for higher education institutions and the venue sector to collaborate. It is designed for students in event management to better understand the industry and develop relationships within it.
Plans for the academic partnership were created and concluded by the University of Greenwich principal lecturer, Faculty of Business, Dr. Peter Vlachos and AEV project manager Alden Arnold. Vlachos will serve as the lead academic advisor and lead academic partner.
Arnold said: “The University of Greenwich has a strong track record of collaborating with our member venues, particularly in London, bringing in fresh thinking and talent in event management through student placements and participation in events. Students at Greenwich have benefitted from real-world experience of the AEV, attending our 2021 Conference at The Business Design Centre and participating in an Event Management working group held at the University’s Event Management faculty.”
Dr. Vlachos said: “Over the years we have collaborated on several schemes together and the AEV have always shown themselves to be extremely generous with their time, and the opportunities they have offered. The new Academic Associate function will help further the professionalisation of the live events and venues industry and support students in entering, contributing to, and advancing in the industry.”
AEV director Rachel Parker said: “Our members have already provided a wealth of and willing support to University Event Management students in isolation. Several universities have used AEV as a portal to reach those professionals within our industry who can offer mentorships and additional opportunities and this momentum is building. This partnership and associate offering will benefit our members, faculty, the wider industry and the next generation of event professionals.”
