John Dale Purcell, a course instructor in the Department of Anthropology at Trent University, has been named the 2014 recipient of the CUPE Award for Excellence in Part-Time Teaching. In receiving this award, Mr. Purcell is recognized for his ability to build strong connections with students and his encouragement of critical thinking in the classroom.

The CUPE Award is presented annually to a member of the part-time faculty at Trent University, represented by CUPE Local 3908 - Unit 1. The award recognizes the positive impact contract instructors have on students and their learning.

“John was unanimously chosen to be honoured for encouraging his students to incorporate anthropology into their everyday lives, inspiring them to go beyond observation and use education as a means of making a better future,” said Dr. Steven E. Franklin, president and vice-chancellor of Trent. “He expands and redefines the boundaries of learning and education, instilling in his students a sense of compassion that helps them grow into socially responsible citizens.”

Mr. Purcell has taught a wide range of biological anthropology courses at Trent since 2006, working at both the Peterborough and Oshawa campuses. His research focuses on the biology of poverty, epidemiology, and the design of evolution-informed public health interventions. In his teaching, Mr. Purcell explores how evolutionary and cross-cultural perspectives can be applied to understanding contemporary human health problems and behavior.

Mr. Purcell’s students praise the effort he puts into providing them with feedback, saying that the communication and inquiry skills fostered in his courses will serve them well in their other studies and beyond the institution's walls.

“I am extremely honoured to receive this recognition and award,” Mr. Purcell said, adding that Trent provides the right kind of environment to encourage outstanding teaching. “Credit for this award must also be shared with the many engaged and enthusiastic Trent students I have had the pleasure to work with and who have provided much inspiration over the years.” Mr. Purcell also offered heartfelt gratitude to colleagues in the Department of Anthropology for their strong support and assistance.

In addition to teaching at Trent, Mr. Purcell credits his long-standing work with the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) in Toronto for providing him with inspiration in the classroom. Currently working with the Emergency Department at CAMH, his previous research focused on the design and implementation of public health interventions aimed at reducing harm and risk in the community. Mr. Purcell and his wife, Kelly, live on a farm near Omemee, Ontario, and are currently researching sustainable farming practices and food production.   

Mr. Purcell will receive his award at a Celebration of Teaching Excellence on Monday, March 31 from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. in Champlain College’s Great Hall. Honourees from previous years will also join us as we celebrate those who exemplify Trent's commitment to teaching. Community members are welcome to attend.