“What makes a great teacher?” It’s a question that usually comes with a variety of answers because they’re often unique to the student, but, in fact, that’s the common theme.  

According to the hundreds of nominations from students for this year’s Decanal Awards for Teaching Excellence and Outstanding Graduate Mentorship, great teaching is when it is tailored to the student. Whether transforming classrooms into collaborative hubs, weaving nature into the fabric of learning, or pushing the boundaries of educational technology, this year’s recipients embody this spirit of engaging students by creating learning experiences that interest and support them in personalized ways. 

“Congratulations to all award recipients. These awards reflect a true commitment to high-quality teaching and learning innovation at Trent University,” said Dr. Kristy Buccieri, associate dean of Teaching and Learning (interim). “With over 300 nominations submitted across all award categories, it is evident that these recipients stand apart for their unique approaches. They each deserve to be recognized and celebrated for these efforts.” 

Since 2022, the Decanal Awards for Teaching Excellence have honoured educators who bring imagination and intention to every aspect of their teaching. Faculty at Trent are customizing course design, assessments, approaches for critical inquiry, and formats of deep engagement to spark dialogue, build trust, and help students thrive both academically and personally. 

The School of Graduate Studies Awards for Outstanding Graduate Mentorship recognize faculty members whose guidance has profoundly shaped the graduate student experience. These mentors challenge, support, and elevate their students, helping them develop the skills and confidence to lead in their fields. 

Here are the recipients of the 2024–2025 Decanal Awards for Teaching Excellence & Outstanding Graduate Mentorship

Decanal Award for Teaching Excellence in Nursing
Julie Plessl, Trent/Fleming School of Nursing
Julie Plessl is recognized for her teaching approach that brings nursing theory to life. Nominators praised her thoughtful assessments, including collaborative two-part exams that foster teamwork and deeper learning.  
“Julie always makes herself available for feedback, questions, and concerns,” shared one student. “She makes it clear that she wants to help us succeed and does everything that she can to accomplish that.”  

Trent Durham GTA Decanal Award for Teaching Excellence
Dr. Anita Boey, Business Administration
Dr. Anita Boey is celebrated for her use of creative assignments and podcasts as learning tools which allows students to absorb course content in flexible, everyday settings. Nominators also highlighted her well-organized course materials and her ability to connect with students on a personal level.
“She remembers names, listens carefully, and ensures that everyone feels heard and understood,” one student shared.  

Decanal Award for Teaching Excellence in the Humanities and Social Sciences
Dr. Barbara Moktthewenkwe Wall, Indigenous Studies
Dr. Barbara Wall is recognized for her relational and inclusive pedagogy, which draws on Indigenous knowledge systems and lived experiences to create transformative learning environments.
One nominator shared, “This pedagogy is one of care, empathy, and deep relationality and reciprocity… students know they are part of a learning environment where they are seen and valued—not merely a number or student in a seat.” Professor Wall’s thoughtful course design, including space for student reflection and dialogue, encourages meaningful connection and engagement.  

Decanal Award for Teaching Excellence in the Sciences
David Riegert, Mathematics and Statistics
David Riegert is celebrated for his innovative teaching methods that make statistical concepts engaging and accessible. His courses integrate real-world applications, interactive coding, and AI-powered resources to support diverse learning styles.
“David uses code-along software that allows us to actually interact with the data, and fit models and graphs in real time,” noted one nominator. “Producing the code alongside the lecture instead of just reading the slides really promotes learning.” His approachable demeanor, flexible course structure, and commitment to student success create a rigorous and supportive learning environment. 

Decanal Award for Teaching Excellence in Education
Dr. Kingsley Hurlington, Education
Dr. Kingsley Hurlington is honored for his inclusive course design and dynamic facilitation, which encourage exploration, risk-taking, and deep engagement with social justice. His classroom is a space where students feel safe to express themselves and learn through experience.
“He let us take on creative ways of learning by making videos and adding our ideas to assignments,” shared one nominator.  

School of Graduate Studies Award for Outstanding Graduate Mentorship (Senior Mentors) 
Dr. Marguerite Xenopoulos, Biology
Dr. Marguerite Xenopoulos is recognized for her exceptional mentorship, leadership, and unwavering commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion.
One nominator shared, “Her actions consistently reflect her values of mentorship, inclusivity, and dedication to student success… she leads by example, demonstrating her genuine commitment to fostering individual development and the broader research community.”  

School of Graduate Studies Award for Outstanding Graduate Mentorship (New Mentors) 
Dr. Abeer Omar, Nursing
Dr. Abeer Omar is honoured for her exceptional mentorship and compassionate teaching, particularly in online learning environments. Nominators emphasized her role in guiding graduate students through complex research journeys, offering insightful feedback and fostering their intellectual growth.
“She helped me grow as a researcher and as a thinker, but perhaps most importantly, she helped me believe in my own abilities,” shared one nominator.  

Learn more about the Decanal Awards for Teaching Excellence and Outstanding Graduate Mentorship.