Decanal Award for Teaching Excellence in Nursing
Julie Plessl, Nursing
Julie Plessl is recognized for her dynamic and student-centered 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.” Prof. Plessl’s unwavering support and commitment to student success has made a profound impact on students.
Trent Durham GTA Decanal Award for Teaching Excellence
Dr. Anita Boey, Business Administration
Dr. Anita Boey is celebrated for her creative and inclusive teaching practices that make learning both engaging and accessible. Her use of podcasts as learning tools allows students to absorb course content in flexible, everyday settings. Creative assignments encourage students to apply course concepts in imaginative ways, fostering critical thinking. Nominators 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. Dr. Boey’s teaching inspires confidence, curiosity, and a deep engagement with learning.
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. Her teaching fosters curiosity, critical inquiry, and a sense of belonging. 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.” Dr. 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, yet supportive, learning environment.
Decanal Award for Teaching Excellence in Education
Dr. Kingsley Hurlington, Education
Dr. Kingsley Hurlington is honored for his creative student-centered approach to teaching, which encourages 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. Hurlington’s inclusive course design and dynamic facilitation inspire students to think critically, reflect deeply, and grow as future educators committed to equity and empathy.
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. Her approach to graduate supervision is both rigorous and compassionate, fostering a sense of belonging and personal growth alongside academic excellence. 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.” Dr. Xenopoulos’s mentorship has had a profound and lasting impact on the lives and careers of her students.
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. Her ability to balance academic rigor with empathy creates a supportive space where students feel seen and empowered. 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. Dr. Omar is celebrated for her dedication to inclusive mentorship and her commitment to student success.