A University of Windsor law professor has won recognition for her work to support refugees.

The Windsor Essex Local Immigration Partnership will confer its Welcoming Community Award on Anneke Smit at a forum March 2. The award is named in memory of advocate and activist Jean Foster, who died in May 2013.

Dr. Smit’s research includes on the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons. She has led efforts across Canada to advocate for those fleeing violence in Syria and serves on the steering committees of the organizations Canada4Refugees and Scholars at Risk.

Her local work includes founding the Windsor chapter of the Refugee Sponsorship Program, which works with lawyers and students to assist groups complete the sponsorship application process, and a Group of Five at Windsor Law to sponsor members of the Tanbari family from Syria.

Smit will receive her award during a community forum at Central Park Athletics, 3400 Grand Marais Road East. The event runs 9 to 11 a.m. Admission is free and open to the public; register online.