We are saddened to hear about the passing of Professor Riaz Hassan—an important part of the Australian Association of Islamic and Muslim Studies (AAIMS). Professor Riaz Hassan was part of the AAIMS Advisory Board and one of the association’s greatest supporters.

Due to his wonderful work in the field of Islamic and Muslim studies, including his unending support of our association, we named our yearly honours prize after him—something he was greatly touched by. The Riaz Hassan Prize celebrates the academic achievements of honours students by selecting the best honours thesis in the allocated year the prize is held. Students are recognised for their outstanding academic achievement and win a prize of $500 AUD.

Professor Hassan’s work and contribution was so well recognised and respected, that almost all academics in Australia, and in the research area of Islamic and Muslim studies, knew of him, benefited from his research, and cited his work. He was a brilliant sociologist who made valuable contributions to the discipline.

He was also more than that for many of our academics.

Professor Hassan was a mentor, a friend, and a father figure for many.

We hope we can continue to honour Professor Riaz Hassan by continuing to offer the Riaz Hassan Prize every year.

Wishing his family patience during this difficult time.

Our condolences,