Ian Gordon Prize in Linguistics
Information
This prize was established in 2024 using funding from the Ian Gordon Trust Fund to recognise excellence in students' work in the School of Linguistics and Applied Language Studies.
Professor Gordon graduated from the University of Edinburgh and taught there before being appointed to the chair of English at Victoria University College, a position he held from 1936 to 1974. He was vice-chancellor of the University of New Zealand from 1947-52, chair of the New Zealand Literary Fund from 1950-74, and a member of the University Grants Committee from 1961-71, in addition to holding many visiting academic and administrative posts. He was known for his work on English prose style, Katherine Mansfield, and John Galt, and as a popular columnist for many years on the use of English. He was made a CBE and received several honorary doctorates. The Ian Gordon Trust Fund was established by Professor Gordon before his death in 2004.
The Ian Gordon Prize(s) are awarded annually for the best piece(s) of completed research (essay, project, or thesis) by Honours or Master’s students in the School of Linguistics and Applied Language Studies. Up to two prizes may be awarded in any year. If the research selected is a thesis (90 points or above), the prize awarded shall be called the ‘Ian Gordon Thesis Prize’. If the research selected is an essay or project completed as part of a course that is less than 90 points, the prize shall be called the ‘Ian Gordon Research Essay Prize’.
Recipients will be asked to write a letter of thanks, which will be forwarded appropriately.