Trent Decanal Awards Celebrate Excellence in Teaching and Mentorship

Trent has long been revered for its passionate educators who will go out their way to engage and inspire their students, while learning alongside them. Whether they were building a community within the classroom, taking the use of technology to new educational heights, or incorporating nature into their seminars, this year's recipients of the Decanal Awards for Teaching Excellence prove once again that Trent's teachers are second to none.

"Our educators work tirelessly to create a dynamic, innovative, and exciting learning environment for our students and are at the heart of why Trent continues to be the top primarily undergraduate university in Ontario," said Dr. Fergal O'Hagan, acting dean, Teaching and Learning at Trent. "These awards reflect our commitment to fostering an enriching learning environment at Trent University, where the passion and expertise of our faculty inspire students to reach their full potential."

The Decanal Awards for Teaching Excellence recognize imaginative approaches to teaching, including course design, instructional strategy, and assessment. Nominees must demonstrate the ability to create well-designed course materials and to support critical thinking, social inquiry, and deep learning. These awards honour extraordinary teaching within a particular course or teaching project that promotes rapport and ongoing engagement with learners and enables students to achieve desired learning outcomes.

The School of Graduate Studies Award for Outstanding Graduate Mentorship recognizes a faculty member who has had a significant impact on graduate student achievement. Recipients of this award are recognized as extraordinary mentors who inspire and challenge students, as well as support the development of critical skills and professional competencies.

"Congratulations to all award recipients. We are inspired by your commitment to teaching and mentorship across all areas of study," said Dr. Kristy Buccieri, acting associate dean of Teaching and Learning. "It is important to recognize and celebrate the contributions that faculty have made to the student experience at Trent. The nominations for such awards are primarily student driven, and they commend the passion and dedication that our recipients bring to their teaching and mentorship."

2023-2024 Award Recipients

Anne Corkery '07 (Traill College), Decanal Award for Teaching Excellence in Education
School of Education assistant professor, Anne Corkery, is recognized for the ways she incorporates outdoor education and supports student learning through integrative and hands-on lessons and activities. Nominators highlighted her commitment to building community within the classroom and valued her support, compassion, and kindness, all of which inspired them as teacher candidates.

From a nominator: "Anne involved herself as a co-learner on our journeys this semester. It never felt like there was a rigid hierarchy in the classroom."

Dr. Madison Moore '20 (Traill College), Trent Durham GTA Award for Teaching Excellence
Dr. Madison Moore, an assistant professor in Child and Youth Studies, received many nominations that spoke to her innovative and creative classroom strategies that support student engagement, foster creativity, and create deep student learning. She is recognized for her thoughtful course design that allows students to engage directly with materials and concepts, supporting critical thinking and reflection.

From a nominator: "[Professor Moore's] unwavering dedication to student success exemplifies her as an educator who not only imparts knowledge but also profoundly impacts her students' growth both academically and personally."

Dr. Victoria Reid-de Jong, Decanal Award for Teaching Excellence in Nursing
Trent/Fleming School of Nursing sessional faculty member Dr. Victoria Reid-de Jong is recognized for her diverse pedagogical approaches, integration of technology, and in-depth and constructive feedback, all of which supports student learning and understanding of complex and difficult topics.

From a nominator: "Professor Reid-de Jong promoted effective learning outcomes by nurturing critical thinking in her assignments and classroom discussions."

Dr. Brent Ryan Bellamy '03 (Otonabee College), Decanal Award for Teaching Excellence in the Humanities and Social Sciences
Dr. Brent Ryan Bellamy, a sessional faculty member in the departments of Cultural Studies and English, received glowing nominations that highlighted his ability to develop a welcoming and supportive learning environment; Dr. Bellamy's pedagogical approach allows him to migrate between a facilitator and a co-learner, actively supporting students' critical thinking skills. Nominators appreciate his genuine care and passion for supporting student learning and well-being.

From a nominator: "[Professor Bellamy's] presence even impacted the harmonious nature between students in his class. His classroom was truly a joy to be in, and one I looked forward to attending even in the midst of stressful midterm and exam seasons."

Dr. Cheryl McKenna-Neuman, Decanal Award for Teaching Excellence in the Sciences
Dr. Cheryl Mckenna-Neuman, a professor in the School of the Environment, is lauded for her ability to use innovative and thoughtful teaching methods to build student knowledge and integrate core concepts into meaningful experiences. Nominators celebrated her dynamic approach and ability to build rapport and foster engagement.

From a nominator: "Professor McKenna-Neuman has effectively cultivated an environment that not only meets learning outcomes but also instills a lasting appreciation for scientific inquiry and knowledge among the students."

Dr. Neil Emery, School of Graduate Studies Award for Outstanding Graduate Mentorship for Senior Mentors
Dr. Neil Emery, professor and chair of Biology and member of the graduate faculty in the Environmental and Life Sciences program, was recognized for his approach to mentorship. Professor Emery inspires and supports his students, providing them with ongoing guidance and diverse learning experiences and encouraging them to take on local and global academic and professional opportunities.

From a nominator: "Professor Emery's guidance extends beyond mere academic pursuits; he takes a holistic approach to mentorship, providing invaluable support in personal development as well. Without comparison, his ability to tailor his mentorship style to meet the unique challenges and aspirations of each graduate student is admirable."

Visit the Centre for Teaching and Learning to learn more about the Decanal Awards for Teaching Excellence and Outstanding Mentorship, including more details about Trent's teaching awards and past teaching award recipients.

Celebratory Display at Bata Library & Trent University Durham GTA and Decanal Panel

During the week of October 7, 2024, students and faculty are invited to visit the Bata Library lobby display and Trent Durham display, featuring the recipients of the 2023-2024 Decanal Awards for Teaching Excellence and Outstanding Mentorship. On October 10, 2024, the Centre for Teaching and Learning will be hosting a panel discussing pedagogical practices and strategies with some of our decanal recipients. Please visit the Centre for Teaching and Learning website to register.

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