that recognition for their hard work during their studies can happen. I was impressed with the high level of professionalism demonstrated throughout the award process, including the solicitation of nominations, reviewing and judging, level of communication, and the award presentation. I would like to thank Emerald and the EFMD, the International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management and everyone involved in the coordination of these awards for taking the initiative and the time to focus on the positive outcomes that can happen when graduate students work hard." Dr Baker Ayoun Auburn University, USA "I am very pleased to learn that Dr Hui Sun has received a Highly Commended Award in the Educational leadership and strategy category of the 2009 Emerald/EFMD Outstanding Doctoral Research Awards. Dr Sun's PhD is one of the first empirical studies to examine how students' academic performance is affected by the built environment. The study is an interdisciplinary empirical research that has important implications for land use, housing, transportation, environmental and education policies. The Department of Real Estate and Construction at The University of Hong Kong strives for excellence in interdisciplinary research that has practical and policy implications. Dr Sun's PhD research is a good example of the nature of research work in the department. I would like to congratulate Dr Hui Sun and her supervisor Dr L H Li for completing an excellent research project." Professor K W Chau Chair Professor, Department of Real Estate and Construction, The University of Hong Kong "I am extremely pleased to