Before retiring at the end of 2022, Julie Hastings served as the marketing director for Hastings Hotels for over thirty years. She now serves on the board of the prestigious hotel collection, which her late father Sir William Hastings established in 1966.

Having been appointed as a visiting professor at Ulster University Business School in 2013, Julie has a long history with the university. Using her knowledge of the sector, she has contributed to specialised teaching and mentoring on undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

The Professor Julie Hastings Scholarship was created in recognition of the financial difficulties that many students have and is intended to help final-year students at a pivotal point in their academic careers.

Two final-year students, one pursuing a BSc in Culinary Arts Management and the other a BSc in International Hospitality Management and BSc in Marketing, will each get two scholarships per year for the following six years. Undergraduate students will have an extra source of assistance as they get ready to launch their careers and join the workforce thanks to the scholarships.

Professor Julie Hastings stated: “I am a strong believer in helping young people realise their full potential, therefore my position as a visiting professor has undoubtedly been a professional highlight for me.”

“Through this scholarship, I am delighted to be able to continue my association with the UUBS and help offer a financial opportunity to two deserving final year students each year. I hope this will assist them with the next chapter in their academic or professional careers.”