but rather than taking umbrage, Geddes encouraged Lee to pursue a Ph.D. in anthropology and write his own study on the Hmong. Now an Australian citizen, Lee holds degrees in social work and a Ph.D. in social anthropology/community development. His research has included diverse refugee populations, but he is best known for his research and publications about the Hmong diaspora. In December 2007, Lee concluded a one-year term (October 2006 through December 2007) as a visiting scholar at the Center for Hmong Studies at Concordia University, St. Paul. He was the recipient of the Center for Hmong Studies first Eagle Award, given out at each of its biennial International Conferences on Hmong Studies, in recognition of a scholar who has devoted his or her life's work to the study of the Hmong and who has spoken out courageously on difficult, even controversial issues related to the field. Along with scholarly writing, Lee has also published several works of fiction including the novel, Dust of Life: A True Ban Vinai Love Story. His poetry has appeared in the Paj Ntaub Voice Hmong literary journal. References http://www.hmongtimes.com/main.asp?SectionID=31&SubSectionID=190&ArticleID=677&TM=47307.82 Hmong Oral History Project Interview Transcript of an interview conducted by Dr. Paul Hillmer of Concordia University, St. Paul. External links GaryYiaLee.com His professional website which includes reprints of many of his articles. Hmong writers Hmong anthropologists Living people 1949 births People from Xiangkhouang province Laotian emigrants to Australia Australian people of Hmong descent