Brett Van Heekeren’s vision to make Charles Sturt University’s (CSU) advertising degree the most successful and respected industry based program in Australia has won him the 2002 International Advertising Association’s (IAA) Harrison L Harold Award for academics.

The IAA Harrison Award is an essay-based international competition, open to academics working at the 47 IAA affiliated Universities worldwide.

A CSU School of Communication lecturer, Mr Van Heekeren believes the future success of the advertising industry hinges on it bridging gaps with universities. It is a belief that has driven his efforts for his students. 

“What is needed is an understanding of the role universities play in the future of agency success. Universities are designing programs to meet both academic objectives and the professional needs of industry, but I believe there is greater room for industry and universities to work together as education partners in this process,” he said.

Throughout his five years at CSU, Mr Van Heekeren has worked closely with industry to ensure the course follows world best practice. The close industry relationships he has developed mean all second year students are assigned ‘real life’ agency projects to work on over 13 weeks.

Third year students are able to take their learning to the next step and manage their own client relationships, through CSU’s advertising agency Kajulu. 

“My prime focus at CSU has been program development – building international partnerships, growing industry partnerships and sponsorships, building a vital and dynamic student agency, consulting to industry bodies, and developing industry relevant curriculum,” Mr Van Heekeren said.

His winning submission was supported by statements from former students, all working with major agencies, and Head of the School of Communication, Professor John O’Hara. 

It is the second year in a row CSU’s advertising course has gained success in the IAA Harrison Awards. Last year, Saskia Moore won the student category.