Professor Ringo Ma has played a pivotal role in leading the Department of Communication Studies and the School of Communication over the past decade.  As Head of the Department of Communication Studies from 2007 to 2010, Professor Ma spearheaded the 4-year curriculum development and enhanced the Department’s visibility through hosting large-scale events such as the Health Communication Series in 2008.  At the School level, Professor Ma is the founding coordinator of the Organizational Communication Option and has served as the Associate Director of the Centre for Media and Communication Research, Chair of the Postgraduate Studies Committee, Associate Dean and Acting Dean.

Professor Ma took up the Acting Deanship during a critical period.  Successfully enduring immense pressure, Professor Ma exercised strong leadership in dealing with the internal and external affairs of the School.  He held regular meetings with Department Heads and enhanced the internal communication channels to convey key messages at different levels.  His passion, commitment, and determination won him the respect of all who have worked with him.  To cope with the approach of the academic reform, Professor Ma led the 3-3-4 Taskforce and restructured the 4-year curriculum.  He drove forward with strong determination the introduction of more common courses, devoting significant efforts to coordinating with Department Heads and Major Coordinators in the course restructuring.  As a result, four common courses were introduced to the revamped curriculum, signifying a major step towards further integration and flexibility within the School of Communication.  Over the years, Professor Ma has also chaired or participated in numerous meetings on administrative, personnel, curriculum and research matters.

As an internationally renowned scholar in communication studies, Professor Ma has served as President of the Association for Chinese Communication Studies (USA) and was awarded an Excellent Service Award by the Association in 2005.  He was also the Chair of the Intercultural Communication Interest Group, Eastern [States] Communication Association.  Since 2007, he has served as the external reviewer for the Public Relations Programme for the Macao Polytechnic Institute, making significant contributions to its establishment of the Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations Programme in 2010.

Equally active in local professional service, Professor Ma serves as a specialist for the Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic and Vocational Qualifications.  He also served as Media Advisor for The Life Underwriters Association of Hong Kong Limited and as supporter and advisor for The Biliteracy & Trilingualism Composition & Speech Competition for an extended period.  His professional service has made an important impact on the community and enhanced the reputation of the University.

The Selection Committee is much impressed by Professor Ma’s dedication to service in many different capacities and at all levels of the Department, School and University.  His readiness to take on administrative duties whenever called upon is highly appreciated.  Professor Ma’s tireless contribution to service makes him a most deserving recipient of the President’s Award for Outstanding Performance in Service.