UVic professor is first Scottish studies fellow

by Beth Haysom

Wood

Scottish history buff Paul Wood had more than Robbie Burns day to celebrate this year.

The UVic history professor fell for bonny Scotland while conducting research for his doctorate in the Aberdeen archives. Now, years of academic devotion to Scottish culture have led to his appointment as UVic's first-ever fellow in Scottish studies.

UVic's faculty of humanities is supporting a new Scottish Studies fellowship, thanks to an endowment from Marion Alice Small, a former UVic arts professor. She shared a passion for all things Scottish with her husband, Hugh Campbell, and set up the Hugh Campbell and Marion Alice Small Fund in Scottish Studies.

"I'm excited to be doing this," says Wood. "Scottish culture is an integral part of our heritage and continues to be significant. Since the 18th century, Scotland has made a significant contribution to the economic, cultural and intellectual advancement of society. What's more, Scottish universities have always recognized their civic responsibilities, as we do here at UVic."

While his appointment coincided with Robbie Burns Day celebrations, Wood is keen to show the world that Scotland has a rich legacy of culture and intellectual thought, much broader than the poems and songs of the popular poet.

Since he began teaching history in the faculty in 1991, Wood has gained an international reputation for his publications on the Scottish philosopher and scientist. Thomas Reid, and has already taught courses touching on various aspects of 18th-century Scotland. He's currently writing a biography of Reid, which will be published by Edinburgh University Press.

As the Scottish Studies fellow, Wood is responsible for developing the Scottish studies program and acquiring library resources. In September, about 60 UVic students can sign up for a course on "The Scottish Enlightenment and Scottish Historical Thought 1700-1860." As requested in the bequest, Wood will also offer a public lecture through the St. Andrews and Caledonian Society of Victoria.

"I'm pleased that Prof. Wood has accepted this fellowship. He exemplifies our commitment to multidisciplinary research and teaching," says Andrew Rippin, dean of humanities. "Ultimately, we intend the study of Scottish literature, thought, culture, society and history to be a focal point of activity in the faculty of humanities."