BESTLECTURER The Professors Page

Kathryn Adams

2010 | School: Arts, Animation and Design - Sheridan College Trafalgar | Kathryn Adams studied art at OCA (now OCAD) before moving to the illustration program at Sheridan College to complete her studies. She then spent a year studying calligraphy in England before returning to Canada in 1986 to begin her freelance career. Since then Kathryn has continued freelance illustration work to the present time.

As a freelancer Kathryn has been a prolific and award-winning illustrator. She has worked for clients in the United States, Canada and Europe. Because of the versatility of her illustration style, she has worked on diverse projects including advertising, books, magazines, packaging, murals and logos.

Kathryn began teaching at Sheridan College in 2001, quickly specializing in teaching business practices. She began teaching a similar course at OCAD in 2005. In addition to teaching business to illustrators, Kathryn also teaches an entrepreneurism course at OCAD and has taught illustration at both schools as well.

What the Students Say:
"Katherine teaches Professional Business Practices courses to third and fourth-year Illustration students at Sheridan whilst maintaining her busy professional career as a talented artist. Her lectures are a superb mix of hard logical business practice and humourous anecdotes "from the trenches" of her successful career. It is a joy and a privilege to attend her lectures.."

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Beth Agnew

2010 | School of English and Liberal Studies - Seneca College | Frustrated at the age of 5 by a toy typewriter that didn't really type, Beth Agnew has been pursuing improvements in communication technology most of her life. Beth is the co-ordinator of the Seneca College Technical Communication program, a 1-year post-graduate certificate program that prepares students for demanding careers writing, authoring, producing, and implementing technical documentation, usability standards, web content, and multimedia communications.

An accomplished writer, marketer, educator, and business consultant, Beth teaches technical and business communication, as well as courses on technology and the culture of wealth, and communicating with social media. She is a Senior Member of the Society for Technical Communication, and a popular speaker at their annual conferences. She was first published at 14, and continued to write for magazines and newspapers even when sidetracked by a career in military telecommunications. That exposure to computer-mediated communication spurred her interest in using technology to facilitate the expression of information and ideas. Her desire to make technology accessible to others resulted in an emphasis on technical writing and editing. Her creative nature inspired a move into broadcasting as well as writing freelance pieces for various markets.

Professor Agnew was formerly employed by Sanctuary Woods Multimedia Corporation where she wrote and edited interactive stories for CD-ROM. She adapted the 20th Century-Fox animated feature film "Once Upon a Forest" to interactive CD-ROM, and was Story Editor for more than a dozen other interactive titles. Following that, she ran her own communications company specializing in designing and authoring multimedia courseware and applications. Over the years, her writing and editing responsibilities increased to encompass marketing communications for scientific and high technology clients, speaking engagements and teaching opportunities related to computers and communications technology. She has been on the faculty of Seneca College since 2002, and continues to inspire students to embrace technology and make it understandable and accessible to others.

What the Students Say:
"Beth Agnew is engaging, thorough and extremely helpful... She draws upon many of her varied business experiences to demonstrate the different roles a Technical Communicator might have upon graduation. She makes us see this profession in a whole new way."

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Laura Allan

2010 | School of Business and Economics - Wilfrid Laurier University |

What the Students Say:
"Speaks loud and clear. Brings outside elements in to the classroom. Goes above and beyond for students."

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James Allard

2010 | Department of English Language & Literature - Brock University I am currently Associate Professor in the Department of English Language and Literature and Participating Faculty in the MA in Popular Culture Programme at Brock University. Prior to arriving at Brock in 2003, I was a lecturer in the Department of English and Film Studies at Wilfrid Laurier University and a Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada Post-Doctoral Fellow at the University of Toronto.

My broad area of expertise is British Romantic Literature and Culture, and I maintain research and teaching interests in the History of Medicine, especially the history of surgery, Body Studies and Speculative Fiction. More specifically I am interested in attending to treatments of the body at the intersections of literature and medicine in the "Romantic Century" (1750 - 1850), particularly in the construction and representation of authority as it relates to notions of health and illness.

My current project examines what I call "patient narratives" and explores the creation of the idea of the "patient" in the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries.

What the Students Say:
"He is amazingly consistent in his lectures. He makes his point very clear, no nonsense involved. He happens to very funny as well... A very important factor is that he seems to be very much in touch with how and what his students think about, touching on everything from pop culture to relationships, and gives literature a more realistic form and shape, rather than making it sound very reverential or something to be in fear of."

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Guy Allen

2010 | Institute of Communication and Culture - University of Toronto Mississauga | Guy Allen, Director of the Professional Writing and Communication Program in the Institute for Communication and Culture at the University of Toronto at Mississauga, has won four major university teaching awards, including the prestigious the 3M Teaching Fellowship (1992).

Allen, who teaches graduate students at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, has lectured widely about teaching and learning in universities and colleges. He advocates positive pedagogy -- that is, teaching practice that shows students how to become learners who take responsibility for their own learning and development. Allen is known for successful innovations in teaching writing in universities. Many of his students have become writers, editors and teachers of writing. Graduates of Allen's classes populate many Canadian media enterprises, including the CBC. Allen has worked as an advisor to the Department of Psychiatry at Toronto's Mt. Sinai Hospital in the use of narrative therapy as a clinical tool, and he works as a narrative consultant with the Washington, D.C. based policy journal, Health Affairs.

Allen authored and performed his own performance pieces in Canada and the United States from 1980 - 2000.Twenty-five years ago, Allen co-founded Life Rattle, a radio program devoted to broadcasting new autobiographical writing, especially writing neglected by mainstream media. Allen founded Life Rattle Press, a nonprofit publisher of new writers. Allen treats autobiographical broadcasting and publishing as community activism. He is co-founder of Toronto's now well-known Totally Unknown Writers Festival, an annual showcase of new writers. The Canada Council, the Ontario Arts Council and the Toronto Arts Council have supported these enterprises.

What the Students Say:
"Quite simply, Guy Allen is one of the best writing instructors in the country. He empowers students to transform turgid sentences into stunning prose. He's a remarkable, effective teacher and lecturer."

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Emma Anderson

2010 | Department of Classics and Religious Studies - University of Ottawa | Emma Anderson graduated from Harvard University with a Ph.D. in Religion in 2005, and immediately joined the University of Ottawa's Department of Classics and Religious Studies, where she is currently an Associate Professor. Her research explores the human cost of the collision between European Christianity and aboriginal traditional religions in early modern Canada.

Anderson's first book, The Betrayal of Faith: The Tragic Journey of a Colonial Native Convert, explores the true story of an aboriginal child taken to France by Catholic missionaries in the early seventeenth century. The work won the American Academy of Religion's award for the Best First Book in the History of Religions, and the French Colonial Historical Society's Heggoy Prize.

Anderson is currently working on her second book, which will trace the protean evolution of devotion to Canadian saint Jean de Brébeuf, and explore the impact of his cult upon the aboriginal peoples who have so often been cast as his nemesis.

What the Students Say:
"She is very passionate about her field of study and her research, her passion translates into very interesting lectures... She is the most thorough teacher I know and really cares about her students. She also has a very quirky sense of humour - I always laugh while in her lectures. What more can a student ask for?"

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Louis Anderson.

2010 | School of Transportation - Centennial College |

What the Students Say:
"He's a great person and a great teacher. He's strict but fair and I enjoy his manner of teaching."

"Mr. Anderson has been an inspiration... Mr. Anderson has made the course Piston Engines, enjoyable and easy to learn... Thank you sir for your patience and understanding."

"Makes difficult topics easy to comprehend. Makes lectures interesting and has students awake and listening at 8:30 in the morning."

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Tetyana Antimirova

2010 | Department of Physics - Ryerson University |

What the Students Say:
"Dr. Tetyana has always had a positive attitude towards every student and constantly tries to ensure every student is following her lectures. Overall, my professor is the best!"

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Delia Antonacci

2010 | School of Legal and Public Administration - Seneca College | Delia Antonacci graduated from the University of Toronto with a BSc and MLS. She has been a member of Seneca College since 1999, starting as a library manager and moving to her current role as a professor in the Library and Information Technician Program.

She has worked in all types of libraries, public, academic and special libraries. She has held positions as a librarian and manager and has worked in all departments from children's services to adult services. Her positions have provided her with the skills and knowledge needed to educate students in their future library careers.

She is an active member of the Ontario Library Association, has coordinated past conference events and was President of OLA's Ontario College and University division. Libraries are a dynamic field and continually changing with new technologies. She thoroughly enjoys working with students and is honoured to be nominated for something she loves to do.

What the Students Say:
"She is very intelligent, having depth of knowledge of her subject, very co-operative, helping, humourous and very dedicated to her profession."

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Maria Assif

2010 | Department of Humanities - University of Toronto Scarborough | Maria Assif is a full-time faculty as well as the Coordinator of Writing about Literature in the Humanities Department at UTSC. Before joining UTSC in July 2008, Maria was a tenured Assistant Professor of English and Literature in Chicago. She is originally from Morocco; she speaks three languages fluently (English, Arabic, and French) and has some reading knowledge of Spanish.

Maria first came to the U.S. in 1997 as a Fulbright scholar to pursue her Masters Degree in English. She went on to pursue her Ph.D., which she completed in May 2005, at Case Western Reserve University with a triple concentration in Literature, Composition, and Women's Studies. She is published in the field of composition studies and ethnic American Literatures. Her current research is in memoirs of war and pain in Arab Women writings. She is also the editor of the Worldwide Global Education Forum Journal, whose headquarters are in Rome.

Throughout her career, Maria has taught a variety of courses in composition, technical and business writing, literature, ESL, and speech. In addition, she has been Coordinator of the Graduate ESL program at Case Western Reserve University, the Coordinator of Global Education at Truman College, and the Coordinator of the Graduate Internship Program at DePaul University/Truman College Bridge Program.

What the Students Say:
"Prof. Assif is the best prof. I have ever had in my life... Professor Assif is always on time, always explaining all the concepts with such clarity and smoothness that all students loved her... I guess the lesson that I learned from her was about literature but most importantly about life, love, passion, and compassion."

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Paul Attar

2010 | Faculty of Continuing Education and Training - Seneca College | Paul Attar is a graduate of York University. He finished his undergrad in 1999 graduating with a B.A. Honours Double Major in Mathematics and Economics, and a B.Ed. He has been teaching Mathematics at the high school level for the past 10 years. Seeking personal growth, he went back to study part time in 2005 and graduated with an M.A. in Mathematics from York in 2007.

Paul has been teaching Mathematics for Business at Seneca College for the past two years. He has found it a different but rewarding experience teaching adults. At both levels, Paul tries to engage his students by connecting Mathematics to real life as much as possible, and to develop critical thinking skills that are useful in other disciplines as well as in daily life.

Paul's outside interests include playing and coaching sports such as Basketball, Track and Field and Ultimate Frisbee. He also likes to read non-fiction books on various topics, solve Sudoku and Cryptic Crosswords, and beat his friends at the occasional game of Scrabble.

What the Students Say:
"Dedicated teacher. Knows how to teach the material. Knowledgeable and at the same time he made sure all the students understood the subject... I wish all teachers could be like him."

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Lee Bailey

2010 | Department of Economics - University of Toronto Mississauga |

What the Students Say:
"As an innovator he has a unique ability to open up different points of view and forces you to do the same, helping you to understand the subject matter better."

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Sherry Bassin

2010 | School of Justice and Emergency Services - Durham College |

What the Students Say:
"Sherry Bassin was by far the best post-secondary professor I had. I graduated from a 3 year legal administration program at Durham College in 1995 and to this day I still remember Sherry Bassin's lectures and the material I learned in his class... If I had Sherry Bassin teaching every class I took in my 3 year program, I would be the most knowledgeable law clerk around."

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Johann Bayer

2010 | Department of Physics - University of Toronto Scarborough | Influenced in his early teens by the TV series "Cosmos" by Carl Sagan, Dr. Johann Bayer started studies in Physics and Mathematics as a stepping stone toward the fields of Astronomy and Astrophysics. He obtained B.Sc. degrees in both Mathematics and Physics from the Universidad de los Andes in his hometown of Bogota, Colombia.

In 1999 Dr. Bayer moved from Colombia to Canada in order to continue with his studies and research. He completed M.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees in Astrophysics from the University of Toronto with research focusing on Gravitational Lensing, a phenomenon observed and described by Einstein's theory of General Relativity.

Dr. Bayer started teaching at the University level in 1994, with a first year course in Calculus. Owing to the diversity of subjects he studied, he has since been involved in teaching courses in Mathematics, Astronomy, Computer Science, and Physics. In addition, Dr. Bayer's passion for teaching Physics motivated his involvement in Physics Education Research (PER), and the implementation of its methods in the classroom.

What the Students Say:
"He makes class really fun and I always love going to his classes. He has a lot of energy and makes class interesting."

"Professor Bayer knows how to give an excellent and perfect lecture that makes the students want to attend class and to love physics."

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Hilary Becker

2010 | Sprott School of Business - Carleton University | Hilary Becker is an Assistant Professor of accounting at the Sprott School of Business at Carleton University. He holds a PhD from the University of Havana, Cuba, a B.Sc. (Biology), BCom, MBA and CGA accounting designation. Hilary previously taught at Queen's University, and the University of Ottawa, teaching from undergraduate to Executive MBA programs in Canada, the Middle East, India and China. Hilary also teaches in the CGA Executive Program and authors the advanced managerial accounting course for CGA Canada.

Hilary's teaching philosophy focuses on integration of the functional areas of business and a typical accounting lecture involves discussions from Strategy, Finance, Economics or Marketing as well. He is known to tell stories in class and also uses magic to demonstrate accounting principles. Recently, his use of magic in class was nominated for the Bea Sanders Innovation in Accounting Teaching award from the American Accounting Association. He was also voted most likely to play Cuban Salsa music by the MBA class of 2010.

Previously Hilary has worked as an analyst with DuPont Canada, and has consulted with the World Wildlife Fund, the MacArthur Foundation, AFNI, Mosaid, BreconRidge, CGA Canada, CMA Canada and the Government of Cuba. He is a recognized expert in Cuban affairs, tourism and business. His research and consulting is in performance measurement systems, and Blue Ocean Strategy, as one of two Canadians certified in Blue Ocean Strategy.

In his spare time, Hilary enjoys spending time with his family, travelling, fishing and making the occasional trip to Vegas.

What the Students Say:
"A master of his field of accounting, Professor Becker never fails to engage a class... He's always available for students and it comes across that he wants us to succeed in accounting as well as other areas of our lives."

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Jonathan Beddoes

2010 | Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering - Carleton University | Dr. Jonathan Beddoes, P.Eng., joined the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Carleton University in 1993 after ten years of involvement in industrial product and process development.

Prof. Beddoes has taught engineering courses at all levels from first year through to graduate courses. His research interests have included high strength aluminum alloys for aircraft applications, casting and processing of aluminum for high value added sheet products, processing/recycling of Al-Si alloys, and high temperature materials for gas turbine applications. Currently, his research focuses on the microstructural design of elevated temperature structural alloys for creep resistance.

He is the author of more than 60 research papers, three patents and two books dealing with industrial processing of engineering materials. Prof. Beddoes was Chair of the Department of Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering from 2002 to 2008.

What the Students Say:
"Simply amazing."

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John Beirness

2010 | School of Justice and Emergency Services - Durham College | I have been teaching since 1977, when I began my career in South Simcoe Public School in Oshawa. One year later, I moved to R.H. Cornish Public School in Port Perry where I remained until 1987 when I transferred to Blackstock and Cartwright Central P.S. The opportunity arose to teach secondary in 1989 at Cartwright High School in Blackstock, one of Ontario's smallest high schools. Here I remained until retirement in June 2007. My teaching career was not over however, as I was quickly asked to teach for Durham College in Oshawa. In this 32-year-plus career, I have also taught the Additional Qualification Honours History Specialist course for Queen's University from 2000 to 2005 during those summers.

The classroom has always been where the education profession is most exciting. Administration never interested me because it would have taken me out of the classroom. I have been very fortunate to have taught my personal favourites through all these years, history and instrumental music. My years at Cartwright High were noted for the exceptional concert bands we were able to produce, despite the fact that the school's population never exceeded 200.

In all my teaching, at whatever level, I stress critical thinking. History, for instance, is not the rote memorization of facts, but rather the reflection and then connections that come from the critical thinking surrounding the facts. Good questions are as important as good answers, whatever the subject. One of the finest compliments I ever received from a student was the statement: "I love your classes Mr. B, but my brain hurts every time I leave." My goal in every class, in whatever the subject, is to see the wheels turning. Ladies and gentlemen, start your engines.

What the Students Say:
"John Beirness brings history alive as he lectures. While he may be lecturing about an event that occurred centuries ago, he makes you feel as though you are there, in the moment. The passion and vast knowledge he demonstrates each and every lecture leaves you wanting to know more. John sends each of his students on a quest for knowledge, which is the most empowering thing a teacher can do for their student."

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Alka Bhushan

2010 | School of English & Liberal Studies - Seneca College |

What the Students Say:
"Clearly explains all material in a very understandable manner. Helps students a lot and makes sure each one succeeds."

"She explains the lecture in a "non-confusing" way in regards to Economics... I had her for 3 different economics courses, her explanations made it easy to understand. She taught us very well and I learned a lot from her lectures. She has awesome lecture notes."

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Jackie Bishop

2010 | Nursing, School of Community and Health Studies - Centennial College | I am a professor in the Practical Nursing Program at Centennial College in Toronto as well as in the Ryerson, Centennial, George Brown Collaborative Nursing Degree Program at the Centennial College site. I also guest lecture each semester at the University of Toronto in the School of Pharmacy. I graduated from the University of Toronto with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1981 and later completed a Masters of Science in Education through Central Michigan University in 1993. Prior to 1985, I had worked in the Emergency Department at the Hospital for Sick Children. During my years of teaching nursing, I have taught in both the classroom and clinical areas and served for 10 years as a program coordinator. In 1997, I was honored with being profiled as a "Role-Model" in the area of Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition by the Ministry of Education and Training at an International Conference in Montreal. In 1997 I received an "International Education Award" from the University of Austin Texas for "Outstanding Contributions to College Education" and in 1998 an "Award of Excellence" from Centennial Collegess Board of Governors.

Over the past 24 years of teaching, I have been privileged to have had the opportunity to learn from my many students, who provided valuable feedback as to what they have enjoyed and found helpful about my teaching style. As a result, my teaching has evolved into one that is inclusive of a touch of humor mixed in with a cooperative teaching-learning style that integrates many modes of learning. At times I will: have a mini-lecture with large group discussion of the relevance of various aspects of the content; use small group case study discussions and role-playing to help students understand the content; use cartoons, u-tube videos, as well as poetry and songs that are intermixed with power-point slides as a way to bring across various points in a more creative and powerful manner; use a Blackboard web-site for each of my classes where I post lecture notes/guides along with case studies, application exercises and links to u-tube videos or web-sites that are applicable to the content that I am teaching. With the large class sizes in the practical nursing program, I also utilize tutorials that are run on a weekly basis where students can come for discussion of their answers to various assigned case studies or class exercises.

Since 2004, my teaching has further evolved to include some of my own life experience by sharing with my year 2 nursing degree students various aspects of my own journey with cancer - of having lived on the other side of nursing care as a patient. The course is focused on the phenomenology (the lived experience of illness) and now that I am living with a diagnosis of cancer myself, I bring a new passion and perspective to my teaching. My goal is to try to instill in my students a commitment for the profound magnitude of their role in working with patients as well as to create a sense of compassion so as nursing students, they can begin to see illness through the "eyes" of their patients that goes far beyond the physical and considers the emotional, social and spiritual aspects of what it means to live with an illness. This would be my greatest accomplishment in my role as a professor of nursing.

What the Students Say:
"At first, nursing theory is like an alien language for me but Jackie's lectures on nursing theories are very engaging... with her sharing some of her own experiences and expertise in the field."

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Anthony Bonato

2010 | Department of Mathematics - Ryerson University |

What the Students Say:
"The best Professor for Math courses. His explanations are just the best."

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Judy Bornais

2010 | Faculty of Nursing - University of Windsor | Judy Bornais has taught at the University of Windsor since 2002 and is currently an Experiential Learning Specialist with the Faculty of Nursing. Previously, Judy was a diabetes educator (C.D.E.) and worked in critical care nursing. She feels that teaching has been at the core of her work in all of these roles. Becoming a classroom educator appealed to Judy as an opportunity to make a broader contribution to health care. Judy passionately communicates to students what a privilege it is to be a nurse and to care for others, to work with families fostering the best possible outcomes. The discipline of nursing draws on a wealth of humanistic and scientific knowledge: students must prepare to apply the knowledge they gain of the science and the art of nursing when caring for patients. To nurture this complex combination of knowledge, skills, abilities, and attitudes, Judy's lectures balance evidence-informed research, clinical examples, experiential learning, case studies, student input, and engaged discussion to persuade, inform, and inspire the evolving professionals in her classes.

A key element of professional practice is lifelong learning, required to stay abreast of emerging research and technology that constantly foster new approaches to patient care. Judy's innovative applications of health pedagogy technologies such as human patient simulators and her constant drive to explore new tools for engaging students truly model this attitude. No matter what the technology or technique, Judy's teaching, her natural energy and enthusiasm, and her profound commitment to her students, the profession, and learning prepare students to make a difference in the lives of their patients.

Judy's research focuses on nursing pedagogy, including the use of standardized patients to improve students' health assessment skills, the use of peer mentors, the use of simulation technology to reinforce and foster caring in nursing students. She is a past recipient of an Elsevier Canada Learning Resource Award and SWOMEN Windsor Advancement of Medical Education Award for her use of teaching technologies and innovative practices to enhance student learning. Judy has been involved in Instructional Skills Workshops (ISW) and has completed the related Facilitator Development Workshop (FDW) which reflects her commitment to helping others develop as teachers. She is a previous board member of and remains active with Sigma Theta Tau International Society of Nursing, Tau Upsilon Chapter, and the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario, and is also a member of the Canadian Diabetes Association Diabetes Educator Sector. She lives with her husband, David, and is the proud mother of three children.

What the Students Say:
"Teaching a class of a hundred or so aspiring nursing students on the most fundamental head-to-toe assessments can be daunting. No need to worry as Prof. Bornais is armed with an arsenal of attention grabbing in-class simulations... Though she is tough on students her caring nature still shows through."

"Professor Bornais taught my first year Health Assessment class. She used all sorts of different audiovisual media and props (TV show clips, simulation mannequins, etc.), and even put on a costume to better illustrate a concept that she was trying to teach one day. Her teaching style was very clear, concise, and she had so many great clinical examples to back up what she was telling us."

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Prosenjit (Jit) Bose

2010 | School of Computer Science - Carleton University | Prosenjit Bose received his Bachelors and Masters degree in Combinatorics and Computer Science from the University of Waterloo in 1990 and 1991, respectively. He completed his Ph.D. in Computer Science at McGill University in 1994. Prosenjit was the recipient of the D.W. Ambridge Award from McGill as the outstanding Ph.D. Graduate in Science and Engineering. In 1995, he was a Killam and NSERC Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of British Columbia. In 1996, he was an assistant professor at the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières. He moved to Carleton University in 1997 where currently, he is a full professor.

Prosenjit Bose is an accomplished researcher having won several awards (such as the Premier's Research Excellence Award, and Carleton's Research Achievement Award) and published over 200 research articles in various fields of computer science including: computational geometry, data structures and algorithms, computer vision, distributed computing, robotics, and geographic information systems. He brings this wealth of research experience into the classroom showing students how many of the concepts taught at the undergraduate level are at the heart of leading-edge research.

Prosenjit has taught Computer Science for the last 14 years. He has been recognized for teaching excellence at Carleton, having recently won a Teaching Achievement Award. His teaching and learning philosophy continues to evolve. It centres on how to best present material and engage learners in such a way that students are motivated to learn the fundamental contents of the course. The main approach he uses to captivate his students is to highlight how their course material is relevant in other courses, in industry and in research. By seeing the big picture, students are much more motivated to learn. Prosenjit encourages and inspires students to strive for excellence and to focus on understanding the material rather than solely focus on grades. His approach to teaching comes from his experience as an athlete and coach. In sports, such as tennis or basketball, when one is focused on the game, they often forget some of the pain involved with physical activity. In this way, he hopes to impart the course material to the students in a fun and motivating atmosphere so that they have fun learning it and forget about some of the pain that is involved with learning new and difficult concepts. Through the use of encouragement, goals, achievable yet challenging goals, high expectations and most of all fun activities, he creates conditions where his students can succeed.

What the Students Say:
"Jit is by far the best lecturer, intellectual, patient, not to mention hilarious; the only way to start a Monday morning."

"Dr. Bose has a gift for being able to present mathematical concepts in a clear, and simple way. In addition he is enthusiastic and challenges his students to solve problems that they might otherwise lack the confidence to tackle. In almost 10 years of post-secondary schooling I feel Dr. Bose is possibly the best teacher I have studied with."

"Very friendly and kind person who holds your attention easily, he made a difficult class that would normally be boring a very good experience."

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Chris Bovaird

2010 | Department of Management - University of Toronto Scarborough |

What the Students Say:
"I have never felt more comfortable in a lecture. Although the lecture room has about 500 students, it feels like he is talking directly to you which makes it a valuable experience. You have to see it to believe it."

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Lydia Boyko

2010 | School of Accounting and Financial Services - Seneca College |

What the Students Say:
"She has a good knowledge of the courses she is teaching and the financial industry in general. She is very helpful in every way and she always makes sure that you get the knowledge before the exam."

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Leah Bradshaw

2010 | Department of Political Science - Brock University | Leah Bradshaw teaches political theory in the Political Science Department at Brock University. Her courses cover the western tradition of political thought, from its roots in the ancient Greek polis to crises and controversies in contemporary liberal democracies. She received her doctorate from York University in Toronto.

Much of her scholarship has evolved from her study of Hannah Arendt, a refugee from Hitler's Germany who established herself as a major and controversial interpreter of totalitarian regimes, and of the "banality of evil" in the modern world. Dr. Bradshaw's courses include themes of "Tyranny: Ancient and Modern", "Cosmopolitanism and Contemporary Citizenship", and "The Birth of the Sentimental Self in Modernity". In the fall of 2009 she is teaching her favourite course on Plato's Republic.

Recent publications have been on ancient and modern empire, comparisons of Aristotle and Thomas Hobbes on views of science, and the relationship between reason and emotion in making moral judgments.

What the Students Say:
"She doesn't use slides like many other professors do but this is what makes her class so enjoyable. She is an expert in her field of study and her passion and deep understanding in the literature is what keeps me returning every Monday and Friday at 8 a.m. In short, she is a truly interesting and motivational teacher."

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Rupinder Brar - Finalist

2010 | Faculty of Science, Physics Faculty - University of Ontario Institute of Technology | Rupinder was born in Toronto and raised in Mississauga. He graduated from the University of Toronto and University of Waterloo before completing his PhD in Astrophysics at Queen?s University. During graduate school, Rupinder researched the halos of spiral galaxies while at the same time he discovered his love for teaching Physics and Astronomy to undergraduate students.

Since graduating, Rupinder has taught Physics and Astronomy at the University of Massachusetts and currently at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology. He has received numerous awards and accolades for his teaching. Rupinder has a reputation for effectively communicating complex topics in Physics and Astronomy to undergraduate students of all different backgrounds with a lecturing style that is engaging, entertaining, active, and interactive.

Rupinder remains active outside academia by participating in causes that advance politics, the environment and community education. In his spare time he enjoys working on his self-published comic.

What the Students Say:
"I have never ever learned Physics with such interest. He makes the course so interesting that you just want the lecture to go on and on."

"Rupinder was an amazing professor, capable of articulating confusing concepts in such simple ways that all students could grasp the subject matter. I am a Criminology student and took Rupinder's Astronomy course to take a break from crime and law based courses. I was terrified that I would do terribly in this science-based course but took it anyways. Rupinder's use of physical examples (such as making a goof of himself and personally demonstrating orbital paths) allowed me to gain a concrete understanding of the basics of Astronomy."

video button Professor Rupinder Brar's lecture submission.

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Martin Breaugh

2010 | Faculty of Graduate Studies, Political Science - York University | Trained at the Universities of Paris and Ottawa, Dr. Martin Breaugh is Assistant Professor of Political Theory and Undergraduate Programme Director at the Department of Political Science, York University.

His research interests are in the theory and practice of political emancipation, radical democracy, and the "return to political philosophy" in contemporary French thought. His book, L'Expérience plébéienne. Une histoire discontinue de la liberté politique, was published in Paris at the Éditions Payot-Rivages and featured in the literary supplement of Le Monde and Le Devoir. An English translation is scheduled to appear at Columbia University Press in 2010.

When teaching, Professor Breaugh follows German philosopher G.W.F. Hegel's advice: "Nothing great in the world has been accomplished without passion".

What the Students Say:
"Speaks from the heart, a very knowledgeable and intellectual man who taught me a GREAT deal about how to think critically."

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Rob Breton

2010 | Department of English Studies - Nipissing University | I am Associate Professor of English Studies at Nipissing University. Primarily a Victorianist, I also teach Romanticism. I publish mostly in the area of nineteenth-century working-class writing and culture.

What the Students Say:
"Dr. Breton is interesting and funny. He knows his stuff and is candid while presenting. This keeps his audience engaged and focused on the material. It also helps students recall the material at exam time."

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Mohammed Brihmi

2010 | Collège Boréal, Toronto Campus |

What the Students Say:
"All aspects of his instruction can be summed up in one word: Clarity -- from his notes to his assignments and especially his in class lectures. In addition his desire to see his students excel is made apparent by the simple statement: "When you succeed we both benefit!"

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Ian Broom

2010 | Department of Psychology - Carleton University |

What the Students Say:
"His lectures are fascinating which is a big deal for a three hour class. He always brings interesting speakers and just makes learning such a splendid adventure."

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Francis Broun

2010 | Faculty of Liberal Studies - Ontario College of Art and Design | Francis Broun came to Canada from Scotland in 1967. Has a BA from McGill and a Ph.D. from Princeton, both in art history. For 15 years he worked at the AGO, teaching courses and helping to organize Old Master exhibitions like the Dutch paintings from the Mauritshuis, and the Holbein drawings from the Queen's Collection. He also accompanied AGO trips to Florence, London and the River Danube.

Since 1989 he has worked as a freelance lecturer, most regularly at the Ontario College of Art and Design, the Royal Conservatory of Music where he was Head of the Humanities Department and the Women's Art Association. He also advises collectors and still travels with groups of art lovers, mainly to North American cities like New York, Washington, Chicago, Philadelphia and Boston. His most recent European trips include London (three times), Vienna, Paris, Venice and Provence. Next year Florence and Rome!

What the Students Say:
"I took his Italian Renaissance class this summer. It was a joy to sit and listen while he took us through the country and its artists. He was educating while entertaining. I've told everyone how much I enjoyed his class."

"Francis always gives a deeper lecture than any other professor out there."

"Francis is so full of energy! He truly knows his material well, working in Italy and giving tours on his yearly trips to museums and galleries around the world... And the humour in his lectures, I even brought my 2 friends and for goodness sake my mom to his lecture because I told them how good he really was! You don't know a good lecture unless you go to one of his."

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Neil Buckley

2010 | Department of Economics - York University |

What the Students Say:
"Professor Buckley knows what he is teaching and students can even pass his exam by just attending his lecture classes because he made sure that all the matters are covered when he is teaching (with a touch of humor here and there). Things are explained so well that it goes right into our head!"

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Marie-Helene Budworth

2010 | School of Human Resource Management - York University | Marie-Hélène Budworth holds a PhD in Organizational Behaviour and Human Resource Management and is currently on faculty at the School of Human Resource Management at York University.

She has published in academic journals that include the Journal of Vocational Behavior, International Journal of Selection and Assessment, and Applied Psychology: An International Review. She has also presented at conferences in Canada, the US, and Europe. Her research has been profiled in print media including The Globe and Mail, and Flare magazine, as well as broadcast media such as CNN and local news throughout Canada and the US.

Her current research projects are in the area of vertical transfer of training, e-learning, as well as values toward modesty and employee development.

What the Students Say:
"Fantastic professor! Relates course concepts to real life examples; keeps you well engaged. Always well prepared and very structured."

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Frederick Burbach

2010 | Faculty of Design - Ontario College of Art & Design |

What the Students Say:
"He's passionate, provocative and personable. The best lecturer I have had in my 5 years as a student!"

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Robert Burk

2010 | Department of Chemistry - Carleton University | Dr. Robert (Bob) Burk is an associate professor of chemistry at Carleton University and is currently Chair of the Chemistry Department. His research interests are in separation science as applied to analytical chemistry. Current research projects include the use of stir-bar sorption extraction for the analysis of low levels of organics in water, the derivatization of carbon nanotubes for use as solid phase adsorbents, the development of cloud point extraction techniques, and the use of supercritical fluids in analytical chemistry.

Bob spends considerable time developing new materials and techniques for teaching chemistry at the undergraduate level. He makes use of many electronic aids both in the classroom and for communicating with students outside of the classroom, notably extensive web-based resources, recording and Podcasting of all lectures and tutorials, as well as instant messaging systems.

Another interest of Bob's is acting as co-chair of a biennial conference on monitoring and measurement of the environment, EnviroAnalysis, which has been run six times since 1996.

What the Students Say:
"He's a wonderful professor who is very interested in the success of his students."

"This is my first year in university, and I was nervous about the transition. About a week before starting classes I had an email form Bob, telling me about himself, the class, and asking for a reply so he could get to know me, and the rest of the class. Upon arriving to his lecture I realized that there are about 500 students! Even with all of these student he is still always there when I need help."

"He is just awesome and I really feel that he deserves to be lecturer of the year because he makes Chemistry (which isn't the most exciting subject) so fun and exciting! Come on, the guy even twitters and facebooks and msns about chemistry. Go Bob Burke!!!"

"He makes this material incredibly enjoyable with demonstrations ranging from all manners of explosions to the sacrifice of a little bit of his wedding band every year in the name of science."

"He combines a depth of knowledge that is very impressive with an eloquent way of speaking, with generous doses of humour thrown in. I cannot think of a more worthy candidate."

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John Buschek

2010 | Technology, Society, Environment Studies - Carleton University | After dropping out of high school and serving in the US Army, John Buschek went back to school where he received a BSc (Syracuse) and a PhD (Wisconsin, Madison) in chemistry. He worked as a chemist in industry (DuPont), and was invited to do research at the Max Planck Institute for Radiation Chemistry and the Hahn-Meitner Institute for Nuclear Research in Germany. He has also carried out research at universities across North America in a range of areas including photoelectron spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, radiation chemistry, polymer chemistry and electrochemistry.

Having been hired by Greenpeace, he sailed the St. Lawrence River and circumnavigated the Great Lakes aboard Greenpeace's research vessel Beluga doing environmental sampling and public lecturing on the environment. After leaving Greenpeace, he was appointed, by order in council, to the [then] Environmental Appeal Board of Ontario as an adjudicator.

His subsequent work has been in education and as an environmental consultant. He has taught at Algonquin College, Carleton University (in the Technology, Society, Environment Studies, the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, and the Faculty of Engineering). He has been a contract teacher of English in the Canadian Arctic, and he has done volunteer teaching in workplace literacy and ESL. He also owns a business, BuschekBooks, that publishes literary poetry, fiction and translations. Among the award-winning BuschekBooks titles are Apostrophes: woman at a piano and Transfiguration (winners of the Governor General's Awards for poetry and translation respectively).

What the Students Say:
"He makes science fun!"

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Malcolm Byard

2010 | Broadcasting & Film, School Communications, Media and Design - Centennial College |

What the Students Say:
"Malcolm began at Centennial as a temp prof and he impressed the students so well that, while he was being considered for full-time employment, all his students wrote to the head of the department and the dean to make sure he came back... Malcolm treats his students as adults and really puts his heart into every lesson. He really cares about us! I've never seen a teacher relate to his students so well."

"He made us who we are today, and is a legend at Centennial."

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Christine Cadieux

2010 | Child Studies, School of Community and Health Studies - Centennial College |

What the Students Say:
"She knows how to concisely simplify theory so that it is easy to understand and remember... Chris is a very responsible, reliable, and experienced teacher. She always shows a calm, but jolly disposition every class. She breaks down the course material into manageable segments... She is expressive in the way she lectures and keeps her students engaged. She makes the classroom atmosphere pleasant and welcoming. Chris Cadieux is a great professor and I am very happy to be taught by her."

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Antonio Calcagno

2010 | Department of Philosophy & Religious Studies - King's University at University of Western Ontario | Antonio Calcagno holds a B.A. (University of Toronto), M.A. (University of Louvain) and a Ph.d. (Guelph) in Philosophy. He is a specialist in Renaissance philosophy, contemporary European philosophy and social and political thought.

He is currently an Assistant Professor of Philosophy in the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies at King's University College. Along with Dr. Steve Lofts, he is the co-founder of the Centre for Advanced Research of European Philosophy (CAREP). The Centre seeks to bring leading scholars and philosophers together to discuss the legacy of, and developments in, recent and contemporary European thought. CAREP seeks to bring into dialogue philosophy in Canada with various European schools and traditions. He is also Editor of Symposium: Canadian Journal of Continental Philosophy/Revue canadienne de philosophie continentale. At the moment, Professor Calcagno is investigating how it is that the mind contributes to informing our understanding of social and political phenomena, including communities, states, and political will.

One of the great pleasures of his life is being able to teach Philosophy to undergraduates at King's University College. Their enthusiasm and love for ideas, debates, discussions and philosophy are inspiring.

What the Students Say:
"Antonio Calcagno is one of the most articulate and knowledgable professors that I have ever encountered. His passion for the subject explodes with every speech and he openly lectures using real time examples and real world hands on experience."

"Dr Calcagno presents his lectures in an interesting and entertaining way that sparks lively conversations among the students every lecture. He will do anything he can to involve us in an experience, whether it means playing music, showing us artwork, or taking us to see some of the old texts he discusses in class."

"His immense wealth of knowledge is incredible and he will gladly share it with any student who inquires. He engages students and draws them into the topic. You can't help but fall in love with this brilliant man."

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Carol Carruthers

2010 | School of Biological Sciences and Applied Chemistry - Seneca College | Carol Carruthers graduated from York University in 1982 with a Master of Science degree in Insect Physiology. That fall, she began part time teaching in the School of Biological Sciences and Applied Chemistry at Seneca College, which eventually led her to a full time position with the Nursing faculty at George Brown College. After the birth of her first child, Carol chose to leave full time teaching. During a twenty year hiatus from the classroom, she owned and operated a highly successful tutoring service and a sewing business, while raising her four children. Through her specialty in high school math tutoring, she returned to full time teaching in 2005 with the Biochemistry department of Seneca College located on the York University campus. It has taken her almost 30 years of teaching to make the circle complete.

Currently, Carol is a professor and coordinator for the Applied Science and Technology Certificate Program (AST). As the recipient of a 2008 Higher Education HP Technology for Teaching Grant, she is the principal investigator researching the impact of tablet PC technology on student engagement and retention. While in the classroom, she is connected to her students by interactive software which allows the student to save their notes from the tablet directly to a server. This is especially useful for learning math due to the freedom provided by using pen based technology. Her classroom walls disappear as students continue their studies from any internet-ready computer, able to recall their notes, use an online textbook, or other resources such as Web Quests and learning objects. Her aim is to engage students and colleagues in the infinite resource that the internet provides to enhance the classroom experience.

She is the chief liaison for a common developmental math course taught in five Seneca schools across three campuses within the Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering Technology. Carol uses her extensive teaching experience gained from twenty years of tutoring high school math and science to provide bridging alternatives for students entering college programs. Her passion for innovative math teaching and her willingness to collaborate within her faculty, college and between colleges, promotes her goal.

What the Students Say:
"She is a great teacher. Fun and also wise."

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Carla Cesaroni

2010 | Faculty of Criminology, Justice and Policy Studies - University of Ontario Institute of Technology | Professor Carla Cesaroni received her PhD in Criminology from the Centre of Criminology, University of Toronto in 2005. She is currently an Assistant Professor at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology in the Faculty of Criminology, Justice & Policy Studies.

Professor Cesaroni's research seeks to examine the stress and adjustment of incarcerated individuals. Additionally, she is interested in the role of punishment in the criminal justice system and in the public psyche.

Professor Cesaroni was the 2008/09 winner of the University of Ontario's Excellence in Teaching Award.

What the Students Say:
"Carla is an inspiring and engaging professor. She makes her students feel valuable and important and goes out of her way to help her students achieve. She does what professors need to do more of in making students feel comfortable and appreciated in the school environment."

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Paul Chafe

2010 | Department of English - Ryerson University | Like most Newfoundlanders, I live in Ontario. I have taught introductory writing courses and courses on Canadian, contemporary, and classical literature at several universities and colleges in Newfoundland and Ontario though my best teaching experience by far has been my current position teaching "Writing as a Cultural Act" to the engaged and engaging students of Ryerson University. The course takes writing and therefore university itself as its subject. This enables us to discuss everything from Socrates to Shakespeare, Fascism to Facebook, in our pursuit of better understanding how documents define our realities.

In January of this year I defended my PhD thesis entitled "Only an Artist Could Measure Up to Such a Place: Place and Identity in Contemporary Newfoundland Fiction." Currently I am making the necessary revisions to turn the thesis into a book. I have published articles on Canadian fiction in Essays on Canadian Writing, English Studies in Canada, and Newfoundland and Labrador Studies. I have contributed chapters to The Geographical Imagination of Annie Proulx and National Plots: Historical Fiction and Changing Ideas in Canada. I am also working on a critical edition of Anastasia English's Only a Fisherman's Daughter, the first Newfoundland novel published by a Newfoundland woman.

I have combined my interest in how identity is expressed in literature with the focus of my current courses on linguistic life to begin studying how modern students create spaces for themselves through language. I am using the philosophies of Martin Heidegger, Giorgio Agamben, Alberto Manguel and others to examine how email, text messaging, Facebook, and Twitter are enabling young people to build a community of words that is fundamentally different from the literary world of their parents. I am interested to see how education will attempt to cross the widening gap between two generations that are quickly becoming (like Shaw's America and England) separated by a common language.

What the Students Say:
"Paul Chafe is a brilliant and humourous professor. This is my first year out of high school and he has made my learning experience very enjoyable... He puts his class in a circle around him to engage everyone in the conversation, which is exactly what he achieves every time!"

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Alfonsina Chang

2010 | Centre for Human Resources - Seneca College |

What the Students Say:
"Alfonsina Chang is informative, enthusiastic, and very professional. She has a genuine interest in every student and she wants us to attend every class and get involved in every lecture... Her teaching has inspired me and many other students to get more involved in the field of HR by applying ourselves to the work and taking chances."

"10/10 professor. Someone who I want for every class not because she is an easy marker but because I can actually learn something that I can take to the workplace after I graduate."

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Frances E. Chapman

2010 | Legal Studies & Criminology - University of Waterloo |

What the Students Say:
"She is the most hard working, dedicated, enthusiastic, and passionate person any student will ever have the privilege of meeting and working with. Professor Chapman has inspired me to pursue a career in law and she has inspired me to attend Harvard."

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Sophie Chrysostomou

2010 | Department of Computer and Mathematical Sciences - University of Toronto Scarborough | Sophie received a B.Sc. - specialist in Mathematics from the University of Toronto Scarborough in 1983. Continuing her studies at the University of Toronto, she received a M.Sc. degree in Mathematics in 1985. At that point she started teaching at UTSC as a sessional lecturer and in1997 she became part of the faculty as a senior lecturer.

Sophie has developed a keen interest in "mathematical pedagogy". She is studying methods by which students learn in this field and she tries to find ways to ignite motivation and interest in them. Her main goals are: (a) to help the students to break the vicious circle that often develops between the lack of mathematical skills and math phobia and (b) to help students develop analytical and critical skills.

She gives inspirational, fun talks in mathematics to students at a younger age by visiting high schools every year. While doing so, she introduces to them more advanced topics that they have been exposed to. For the last two years she has worked with a team that is involved in a study to find the pros and cons of online lecture accessibility in the context of "skill based" courses. This year she is involved in a study to find out if students' attitudes regarding a math course change, according to their involvement in the course and if a shallow learner can become a deep learner based on effort.

What the students say:
"She is the best math professor I have had in my life. The transition from high school to university gets just hard... She made it look easy to me and the class... Going to her with questions was just a joyful experience."

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Susan Chuang

2010 | Department of Family Relations and Applied Nutrition- University of Guelph |

What the students say:
"She is by far the most interesting professor/teacher I have ever had. She is very charismatic, amusing, comical, and most of all, has a true passion for educating. She has the ability to capture the attention of her audience with ease and is able to make class enjoyable and comfortable for everyone."

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David Ciavatta

2010 | Department of Philosophy - Ryerson University | David Ciavatta joined the Department of Philosophy of Ryerson University in the fall of 2006, after having taught at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff, Arizona, and Trent University in Peterborough, Ontario. He obtained his PhD in Philosophy from Pennsylvania State University, in 2003, and his dissertation focused on the philosophy of influential 19th Century German thinker, G.W.F. Hegel. His research has continued to focus on the philosophy of Hegel, as well as on more contemporary thinkers in the Existentialist movement. David regularly teaches courses in Existentialism, 19th Century Philosophy, and foundational courses in the history of philosophy at Ryerson. Though he enjoys the stimulation of teaching more advanced courses, he also loves offering introductory courses to students of varying backgrounds, courses that serve to initiate students into the practice of philosophy.

David grew up in Toronto, and started his university career at the University of Toronto, where he pursued a double major in English and Philosophy. While he came to university thinking he would focus exclusively on the study of English literature, he gradually found himself more and more interested in the theoretical debates in aesthetic theory and criticism, as well as in certain questions concerning the nature of time-and these issues eventually led him to study more philosophy, and especially the philosophies of certain figures from the European continent, whose work not only made for a more natural bridge to the study of literature, but also gave pride of place to the study of the distinctive temporal character of human reality.

What the students say:
"David is a very insightful lecturer. He takes philosophy and makes it entertaining - keeping his students engaged, while being informative... He has an amazing passion for philosophy and channels his passion into each of his students."

"He is clear, passionate, and truly makes philosophy an interesting course for everyone. I am a business student and he has inspired me through his lectures to further my studies in philosophy."

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Lorraine Cipparrone

2010 | School of Business - Sheridan College Davis Campus | Lorraine Cipparrone is a Certified General Accountant (CGA) who received a Bachelor of Accounting Science degree from the University of Calgary. A new Professor at the Sheridan Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning, she joined the School of Business in January 2009. She is also the Student Advisor for the Accounting in Canada for Internationally Trained Accountants program. Lorraine teaches a wide range of courses and in the short time that she has been at Sheridan has acted as a course developer for the School of Business. Not only is Lorraine an inspiring Professor to her students, she is also a successful entrepreneur. She is a Partner in SunStorm Consulting Inc., a company that provides information system consulting services and the Principal in the firm, Lorraine Cipparrone CGA; a firm that provides accounting and taxation services to both personal and corporate clients.

Lorraine is very involved with both CGA Ontario and CGA Canada. CGA Ontario has not only recruited her as one of their High School Ambassadors, she is also an assignment marker for a wide variety of courses. For CGA Canada she is an active Professional Applications Examination Marker (the final examinations in the certification process leading to the granting of the CGA designation) and has previously sat on CGA Canada's PA1 Standard Setting Committee.

Volunteering and supporting the community is very important to Lorraine. She currently holds a seat on the Halton Catholic District School Board's Special Education Advisory Committee. A current Board Member for the Oakville Parent Child Centre, she previously held the roles of Treasurer and Vice-Chair and she is the Secretary of the St. Andrew Elementary School Council. Lorraine, a parent of a special needs child, understands the challenges of supporting an exceptional child. She assists parents of children with disabilities or impairments in obtaining services and community supports and also assists women and their families who have been victims of abuse to learn how to manage personal finances.

Despite all she does for her students, clients and the community, Lorraine is a dedicated wife, mother to her two young sons, Daniel age 6 and Adam age 4 ½ and stepmother to Michael age 20.

What the students say:
"Demonstration ability and Communication skills which made us do hard work and succeed."

"In my dictionary a good lecture can be delivered by any professor but a great lecture can only be delivered by a person having full command over the subject... I know one professor who has the knowledge and she has the style to deliver such lecture Prof. Lorraine."

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Liz Clarke

2010 | School of Engineering Technology and Applied Science - Centennial College | Liz Clarke is an experienced senior manager with over 22 years experience creating, refining and managing business processes. Liz has designed and supervised projects within a wide range of industries, including financial services, IT, supply chain and logistics, and education. Clear and concise communications are a cornerstone of Liz's work. As a skilled and tech-savvy writer, presenter and teacher, she is adept at synthesizing large amounts of complex information quickly.

In August 2000, Liz was hired by Centennial College and is currently enjoying her ninth year as full-time faculty with the School of Business. During her first seven years on faculty, Liz taught in the demanding E-Business Graduate Certificate Program. This program, and the graduate students within it, required that Liz remain up-to-date on the latest in communications technologies from a business perspective. Happily, the study of emerging technologies remains a personal passion. Liz holds a Master of Business Administration degree from the Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto, where she graduated with Dean's List honours. Liz's undergraduate work was completed at Brock University in an Honours Bachelor Degree in Theatre/Dramatic Literature (English). Upon graduation, she won the J.H. and J.F. Harding Prize honouring Excellence in Theatre and Dramatic Literature.

About twice a year, Liz combines her business, communications, musical and theatrical skills to produce fundraising events for worthy organizations. In the past few years, recipients of funds from various concerts and theatre productions have included Lupus Canada, Habitat for Humanity, Friends-for-Life Bike Rally, and Fife House's Capital Campaign. Four times a week, in the winter, Liz can be found pursuing her other passion - ice hockey. A sponsor of The Women of Winter Outdoor Shinny Tournament, Liz is never happier than when making the perfect pass, lining up the perfect play, or formulating the next story to tell in the pub.

What the students say:
"Professor Clarke is very engaging... I have had many great professors however she does stand out."

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Gordon Cleveland

2010 | Department of Management - University of Toronto Scarborough | Dr. Gordon Cleveland is Senior Lecturer in Economics in the Department of Management at University of Toronto Scarborough. He is also Senior Fellow at the Graduate School of Education, University of Melbourne, where he is a Partner Investigator on a longitudinal study of Australian children and early education programs.

Dr Cleveland teaches microeconomics at introductory and intermediate levels, and the economics of the family. He has devoted his research career as an economist to analyzing the economics of early childhood education. With co-authors, he has studied the costs and benefits of universal good-quality child care services in Canada, the financing of child care systems in OECD countries, the effect of child care costs on mothers' employment, the determinants of the wages of child care workers, the determinants of quality in early childhood care services, and the impact of non-profit status on the production of quality in child care. He and Prof. Michael Krashinsky have co-edited a University of Toronto Press book on child care policy in Canada.

What the Students Say:
"Prof. Cleveland is a very engaging lecturer... He is able to explain concepts very clearly, using vivid examples with a slightly humourous twist. He provides his students with all the resources that they need to succeed in the course."

"He gives many practical examples during his lectures and has a great sense of humour!"

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Avi Cohen

2010 | Economics, Faculty of Arts - York University |

What the Students Say:
"Dr. Cohen's introductory microeconomics course was my first lecture on my first day at York University. In other introductory courses, my professors tried to complete their lectures with the minimum effort. Dr. Cohen's course was very different. His enthusiasm for teaching was heartfelt and I responded by taking five more of his undergraduate courses. Dr. Cohen's passion for teaching, learning and economics in general was the single most significant factor in my decision to choose this discipline as an undergraduate major and a direction for graduate studies."

"Great communication of Economic concepts for those studying the subject for the first time, and with a great sense of humour."

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Stephen Connor

2010 | Department of History - Nipissing University |

What the students say:
"Dr Connor is my favourite lecturer. He's been to so many places and is so inspiring... He keeps all of us interested with his adventures and he always has movies and book suggestions if we want to learn more about the subject. He makes me want to go to the places he talks about and makes me want to learn and study more about the subjects I take with him."

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Gabriele Contessa

2010 | Department of Philosophy - Carleton University | Gabriele Contessa teaches in the Department of Philosophy at Carleton University He received his PhD in 2007 from the London School of Economics. He works primarily in metaphysics and philosophy of science but enjoys teaching on a wide range of topics in contemporary philosophy.

His teaching philosophy is based on the observation that students often find the abstract and technical debates of contemporary analytic philosophers dry and the realization that students learn best when those debates and the concepts and ideas that are central to them are presented in a concrete (and sometimes entertaining) setting, by using of stories, pictures, videos and props.

What the Students Say:
"He has done a fantastic job of breaking down complex philosophical problems into accessible, yet complex and challenging discussions; and through these discussions, has helped his students to hone the rational and conceptual skills that are necessary for doing good philosophy."

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Colin Cook

2010 | School of English and Liberal Studies - Seneca College | My name is Colin Cook and I am a Professor in the School of English and Liberal Studies at Seneca College of Applied Arts and Technology in Toronto. I have taught for Seneca for four years and I have taught a variety of courses including everything from basic grammar to courses in Mythology and Shakespeare. Teaching has become one of my great passions in life and a constant personal goal of mine involves engaging students in material by making it apply to them and their lives.

In 2004 I attained an undergraduate degree in English Language and Literature from The University of Waterloo and in 2005 I attained a Master's Degree in the same field from McMaster University. I am twenty eight years old and I am originally from Brantford Ontario. Having been raised in a small town, adjusting to Toronto life took several years. I moved to the city in 2006 and I have since managed to adjust. Living in the Greater Toronto Area has afforded me the opportunity to deal with students from many different cultural backgrounds. This has, in turn, made my teaching experience much richer and more fulfilling.

In August of 2009, I was married to my girlfriend/fiancée of nine years, who teaches English for the Toronto Separate School Board. I consider myself very lucky in the respect that, because we both work in the same field, we can quite often bounce ideas off of each other. Outside of my work I spend much of my time either with my wife, visiting my family in Brantford, marking papers, or working out at the gym in my area. Although neither of my parents are teachers, my mother is an educational assistant in Brantford and I have many teachers in my extended family. Regardless of the outcome of my taped lecture, the fact that one of my students took the time to nominate me is a tremendous honour.

What the students say:
"This professor is one of those most captivating professors I have had during my college life. He makes what we are learning appealing, with energy... He is incredibly intelligent, and I appreciate his teaching ability, his passion, and his diligence."

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David Copeland

2010 | Department of English - Ryerson University | David Copeland was born in Toronto in 1960. After completing a B.A. at the University of Toronto (English Major, History Minor), he went out of his way to learn, travelling to Dublin to complete an M.A. in English Literature and Vancouver to earn an M.F.A. in Creative Writing. He returned home to Toronto to complete his Ph.D. at the University of Toronto in 1994.

Since 1994 he has worked as an instructor at Humber College, the University of Toronto, the Ontario College of Art and, since 1997, at Ryerson University, where he teaches Children's Literature and Popular Literature and a good deal else besides.

He has published articles on modern British and American fiction and Canadian children's writing. He is currently at work on a critical study of Henry Green and is revising a very funny novel for publication.

What the Students Say:
"He really knows his material, and isn't shy about his intellect. He's in touch with the generation he's speaking to. When he teaches he actually speaks to you as opposed to the four walls of the room. And most importantly he's hilarious... which really helps hours pass."

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Rory Coughlan

2010 | Department of Psychology - Trent University | Dr. Rory Coughlan earned his M.A and Ph.D. at the University of Victoria, British Columbia and has been teaching at the university level for 14 years in total (6 years in BC and a further 7 years at Trent in Ontario). His work is very much inter-disciplinary and engages with subjects in the fields of social and health psychology with special interests in health systems and behaviors, culture, communication, ideology, personal agency, aging and theoretical issues in psychology.

His Ph.D. dissertation comprised of two parts. The first was a theoretical discussion of the assumptions and practices of modern allopathic and alternative health systems followed by an empirical investigation of new mothers' experiences with physicians and midwives and how differing healthcare models promote or deny experiences of patient agency. Recent research has been published in nursing, medical, sociological as well as psychological journals.

Rory enjoys teaching the following courses at Trent: Introduction to Social Psychology (2nd Year), Health Psychology (3rd year), Critical Psychology (4th year), Qualitative Analysis (4th year), Personality Psychology (2nd year) as well as guest lectures in Sociology and Indigenous Studies.

What the students say:
"Dr. Rory Coughlan is by far the most inspiring, knowledgeable and interesting lecturer I have ever met. He taught me Social Psychology this year and each night I would come home and tell my family all that Dr. Coughlan taught me. I even took my 12 year old son to one of his lectures because I was so inspired. I could listen to him for hours and would take any of his classes, even if they were not part of my program because I would benefit greatly from the knowledge I would gain."

video button Professor Rory Coughlan's lecture submission.

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Olivier Courteaux

2010 | Department of History - Ryerson University | Olivier Courteaux is Professor of Contemporary International Relations at Ryerson University. He completed his Doctorate at the University of Sorbonne - Paris IV. His primary fields of research are: 1- Canada's foreign policies in the 20th and 21st centuries and 2- General de Gaulle's foreign policy in the 1960s. His book 'The War on Terror: The Canadian Dilemma' was published in September 2009. He is currently finishing a book on Franco-Canadian relations during the Second World War.

What the students say:
"He is that one professor that not only teaches you a subject but changes you in the process. I originally took my first history course with him because the time of the lectures fit my schedule... On the first day Professor Olivier Courteaux unrolled before me a rich tapestry where one event flowed into and influenced the next, each connected... For three semesters now I have taken a history course taught by Professor Courteaux, I consider them my special treats. If this man ever taught Knitting 101 I would take it, I would enjoy the process and at the end I would have a beautiful warm and comfortable sweater."

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Brian Cousens

2010 | Department of Earth Sciences - Carleton University | Brian Cousens is an Associate Professor of Earth Sciences who specializes in the study of volcanoes and their impact on society. Born and raised in Montreal, his interest in geology began at John Abbott CEGEP and continued through his undergraduate career at McGill University. A huge fan of Jacques Cousteau, Brian moved to the University of British Columbia to complete a M.Sc. degree in Oceanography and Marine Geology, and subsequently worked in the Oceanography department for three years. He then moved to the University of California at Santa Barbara to complete a Ph.D. on the geology and eruptive history of Gran Canaria, Canary Islands.

Brian moved to Carleton University in 1992, where for many years he managed a geochemical laboratory, conducted research projects in Canada and the US, and taught as a contract instructor. Brian became a full-time faculty member at Carleton in 2007. He teaches Introductory Geology and has led field courses in Hawaii, Italy, California and Nevada, and most recently Iceland. He contributes to geological outreach efforts, including high school visits, Enrichment Mini-courses for Grade 9 students, and a High School Teachers Workshop in Earth Sciences. He routinely gives lectures on- and off-campus on the hazards associated with active volcanoes around the world.

As an instructor, Brian has twice won a Faculty of Science Teaching Award at Carleton University. His research work takes him and his students from young volcanoes in southwestern United States (a volcanologists paradise) and the Hawaiian Islands, to ancient volcanic rock sequences in Nunavut and the Northwest Territories. Brian's research work in the Yellowknife area earned him the 2002 Julian Boldy Award presented by the Mineral Deposits Division of the Geological Association of Canada.

What the Students Say:
"Dr. Cousens is everything you could want in a professor: He is extremely intelligent - yet totally approachable and non-intimidating, he organizes his lectures in ways that keep my attention and interest."

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Naomi Couto

2010 | Department of Sociology - York University | Naomi Couto, teaches in the areas of Sociology, Criminology, and Public Policy and Administration Studies.

There's an old proverb that states 'the teacher appears when the student is ready'. Taking this premise to be true, my undertaking as an educator becomes "how do I make my students ready?" This is no easy task in our modern world of proliferation of mass media, capitalistic values, and a host of many other distractions: namely, distractions from knowledge, not simply as a commodity, but as a way of being in the world. So, my method must be Socratic. I cannot 'teach' anything until my class and I have discussed the state of education in a system that treats it as a marketing tool (acquisition). We, both teacher and student, embark on a discourse that discovers the many histories that inform our ability to think and speak about the subjects before us. This for me means giving the students their voice back.

Using this awareness as my grounding, my style of teaching must help them locate knowledge as empowerment. My hope is that whichever subject I may be covering, the material becomes accessible because the language includes their own participation in it. I have learned that the teacher-student dialectic is always changing since it reflects the technological, economic, and political anxieties of the day.

As an educator today, I use the modern tools of Power Point and the Internet. My use of the Internet in the classroom connects the students to the multi-ethnic and multicultural world around them. In addition, an exploration of gender issues as central to all material presented, is illustrated as a main focus throughout the examples of our pluralistic communities. The thread that holds together my use of these technological teaching resources and my lectures is the sociological imagination that flows through the lectures as dialogue. After all, what is a Democracy if we have consumers instead of citizens - that is, consumers who cannot engage in a critical self-understanding of what it means to be free and active members in a political community?

What the Students Say:
"She's smart and keeps the audience attentive towards the material being covered. She is also able to merge concepts and theories together for a complete understanding of the topic."

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Gary Crawford

2010 | Department of Anthropology - University of Toronto Mississauga | Gary Crawford is a Professor of Anthropology at the University of Toronto Mississauga where he is currently department Chair and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada. He is also a research associate at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto.

His research interests focus on the palaeoethnobotany and environmental archaeology of northeastern North America, Japan, and northern China. He has also co-authored two introductory anthropology texts. At the moment he is participating in a multi-year project exploring the origins of agriculture in North China.

His family is originally from Kingston and Ottawa, he attended the University of Toronto as an undergraduate and went on to graduate school at the University of North Carolina. He is the author of over 60 papers (some in Chinese, Korean or Japanese), 5 books and was narrator and co-writer of a television series on archaeology produced by TVOntario (Archaeology from the Ground Up). He is currently working on a book on early agriculture in East Asia.

What the Students Say:
"He is an expert on paleoethnobotany, the origin of agriculture that was a major revolution... He makes the course so interesting and I love how he speaks."

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Zeba Crook

2010 | Religion, College of the Humanities - Carleton University | Zeba Crook was born in Montreal, but grew up in and around Salmon Arm, British Columbia, including a long stretch living in an abandoned log mansion without electricity or running water. His academic career got off to an inauspicious start; he failed Grade One for insisting on speaking French in the very English-speaking Salmon Arm. In his twenties, he competed for Canada in Track and Field, and was, for a while, the fourth-fastest steeplechaser in Canadian history. In his final year of a BA in Political Science at the University of British Columbia, he took a course in Jewish-Christian relations, and discovered he had a passion and aptitude for Religion Studies. He completed an MA in Religious Studies at UBC, and then headed east to Toronto for PhD studies. He has been at Carleton University since 2003, and is now an Associate Professor of Religion.

Zeba's research focuses on the origins of Christianity and the writings of the New Testament. He approaches these in the same way one would approach the study of any community and writing from the distant past: as a secular historian. He brings this same approach into the classroom, where students of all perspectives welcome his balanced, rigorous, witty, and sometimes irreverent approach to studying religion. Zeba also frequently incorporates indie and alternative music into his lectures in order to encourage students to see how the human spirit is revealed in both the creation of music and the creation of religion.

Zeba teaches courses in early Christianity (e.g., Introduction to the New Testament, The Historical Jesus) and for six years has taught the Introduction to Judaism, Christianity, and Islam on Carleton's CUTV program, where he shamelessly shows off pictures of his first daughter always with no relevance whatsoever to the lecture material. Her brand-new sister will likely be featured the next time he teaches the course. He is the author of one book (Reconceptualising Conversion, 2004), co-editor of two others, and the author of many scholarly articles. He is currently working on an undergraduate textbook for Oxford University Press, and a book on representations of Jesus Christ in modern novels.

What the Students Say:
"I took Dr.Crook's course last semester and although it was not a required course for my degree, it was one of my favorite courses. I enjoyed Dr. Crook's immense knowledge and sense of humour - a very engaging lecturer."

video button Professor Zeba Crook's lecture submission.

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Brad Culver

2010 | School: Arts, Animation and Design - Sheridan College Trafalgar Campus | Brad Culver has been a Professor in the Sheridan Interior Design Program since 2000. He was Academic Co-ordinator from 2000 to 2003. His teaching and research emphasize sustainable design, creative exploration, critical analysis, independent research, design history, the language of style, and design education. His courses explore the 'process' of design, emphasizing rigorous student involvement, scholarship and initiative.

Brad completed a Master of Urban Design Studies (MUDS) degree from the University of Toronto in 2009, while on Sabbatical. He has Bachelor of Architecture (BArch) and Bachelor of Environmental Design Studies (BEDS) degrees from the Technical University of Nova Scotia (now part of Dalhousie University) in Halifax. He also has a BA from the University of Alberta. He is a partner in the Interior Design firm Culver and Henderson Building Design Inc. (since 1991) and is the principal of the Architecture firm Brad Culver, Architect (since 1999), both located in Toronto. He is a member of the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) and an Educator member of the Association of Registered Interior Designers of Ontario (ARIDO). His work has been featured in various magazine articles, exhibitions, books, and television shows.

Brad's classes are typically not lectures. Rather, after almost 20 years of teaching, he has slowly turned his classes into 'discussions'. He has found that, by minimizing the usual 'teacher-student' (dis)-connection, and by embracing more of a 'one-on-one' 'discussion' strategy, where student and teacher are 'colleagues', he has been able to see more confident students, who begin to exhibit independent thinking, self-analysis/criticism, and more initiative. His TVO competition submission reflects this experiment.

What the students say:
"Brad has an amazing zest for life. He is passionate about helping us succeed, and wants us to feel confident in his classroom. He is approachable, and easy going. By being open and friendly, Brad Culver creates an easy and supportive environment, which is the best place for a student to learn."

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Philip Cunnington

2010 | Human Resource Management, School of Business - Centennial College |

What the students say:
"I've enjoyed (and religiously attended) Professor Cunnington's classes because he teaches with a style that evokes thought and encourages student participation... Thanks to Professor Cunnington I have learned to think strategically from multiple perspectives. I am honoured to have known and been the student of such an exemplary educator and mentor."

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Gerald Cupchik

2010 | Department of Psychology - University of Toronto Scarborough |

What the Students Say:
"He is inspiring, revolutionary and brilliant. Without a doubt, Dr. Cupchik is the essence of what a professor/lecturer should aspire to be - a blessing."

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Clint Curle

2010 | Department of Law - Carleton University | Clinton Timothy Curle, LLB, MTS, MA (Theology), MA (Legal Studies), PhD (Political Science) is currently a full-time instructor in the law department of Carleton University. He is also the Executive Director of World Hope International Canada, a relief and development agency which seeks to alleviate child and youth poverty around the world.

His academic interests are focused on international human rights. His first book, Humanité: John Humphrey's Alternative Account of Human Rights, was published in 2007 by the University of Toronto Press. He is married to Tracy Curle and has three children.

Clint is also an ordained Methodist minister, and together with his wife Tracy co-served as parish pastors for eight years. His spare time is split between the peaceful pleasures of changing diapers, tidying the house, playing with his children and going to church; and adrenalin-pumping activities like mixed martial arts and driving too fast on his motorcycle.

What the Students Say:
"He has made the transition from high school to university much easier as he is fun and interesting to listen to. He incorporates personal experience and relate able examples into his lectures which help the class to grasp the ideas and theories he teaches."

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Clare Dale

2010 | Department of History - Carleton University | A self-professed "history geek", I received my doctorate from the University of Toronto in 2007. I am a specialist in the social history of war in early modern Europe (1550-1815) but enjoy researching and publishing on many different aspects of history. I have been teaching for almost a decade and have had the pleasure of working at various universities in the southern Ontario corridor as well as teaching in the School of History at the University of Reading in 2003.

Historical theory (methods and philosophy of history) is one of my favourite classes to teach as I enjoy helping students find their "inner historian" and providing them with the methodological and intellectual tools they will need to do well in what can be a very demanding discipline.

What the Students Say:
"Her class is a treat to attend, as she is energetic and enthusiastic about the subject matter. She finds new ways to challenge her students... Her third year class in Historical Theory looks to be the highlight of my fourth and final year in my bachelor degree."

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John Daly

2010 | School of Marketing and e-Business - Seneca College |

What the Students Say:
"Interprets the textbook in a useful way for students to comprehend. Lectures personal experiences as well as through the textbook. Very upfront, and easy to approach... Keeps the lecture upbeat and interesting."

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Jeff Dawson

2010 | Department of Biology - Carleton University |

What the Students Say:
"He is the first biology professor I've had where I actually want to go to class. He doesn't just lecture at you, he makes you feel like you can get involved (if you so wish). Great lecturer who makes the lecture fun and interesting for all.

Professor Jeff Dawson is a really good teacher. He knows how to teach and explains it in such a way that students will understand right away."

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Antoine Deza

2010 | Department of Mathematics & Statistics - McMaster University |

What the Students Say:
"He is a very good speaker. Presents his material in a clear and concise manner. He offers plenty of examples while staying on topic. He provides his students with his best, and is willing to go above and beyond in helping out a student."

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Jane Dickson-Gilmore

2010 | Department of Law - Carleton University | Jane Dickson-Gilmore is an Associate Professor in the Law Department at Carleton University, where she teaches such subjects as aboriginal community and restorative justice, conflict resolution, and introductory law and legal studies.

Active in First Nations communities, she has served as an advisor for the Oujé-Bougoumou Cree First Nation Community Justice Project and makes presentations to schools on aboriginal culture, history, and politics. In the past, she provided expert advice to the Smithsonian Institution - National Museum of the American Indian on Kahnawake Mohawks. Ms Dickson-Gilmore has also been called upon to present before the Standing Committee of Justice and Human Rights, has acted as an expert witness in proceedings before the Federal Court and Canadian Human Rights Commission, and is a member of Legal Aid Ontario's Aboriginal Issues Advisory Committee. She is the author of numerous academic publications, and has received several academic awards, including a Governor General's Gold Medal for her MA research, a Law Commission of Canada 1999 Legal Dimensions Initiative, and in 2002 was appointed to the federal Indian Specific Claims Commission, on which she served for 7 years. In 2007/08 Dr. Dickson-Gilmore was awarded a Leverhulme Visiting Professorship, which she held at the University of the West of England.

Ms Dickson-Gilmore was born in Alberta and raised in British Columbia. She graduated from the London School of Economics with a PhD in Law and holds a BA and MA in Criminology from Simon Fraser University.

What the Students Say:
"I find it difficult to point out female figures in our society who can be role models to all girls and women for being not only intellectually brilliant, but strong in their political viewpoints, well informed on the worlds affairs, and behind it all, can still have a great sense of humour. These are the reasons behind which I wish to nominate Professor Jane Dickson-Gilmour."

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Christine Doody-Hamilton

2010 | School of Civil Engineering Technology - Seneca College | I was born and raised in Scarborough, Ontario. I attended the University of Toronto for Arts & Sciences before discovering my love of water resources engineering. I attended Seneca College for Resources Engineering Technology, specializing in the Marine Option.

I worked in the private sector for consulting companies for two years honing my skills in surveying, remote sensing, drafting, and report writing. I worked for the Toronto Region Conservation Authority for the next 6 years specializing in stormwater management, flood and erosion control, and watershed studies.

I came to Seneca College to teach in the Fall of 1989, teaching courses in water resources engineering technology, environmental assessment and planning. I have participated in applied research studies investigating porous pavement, biofiltration for indoor air quality, and 3D graphic tools for building systems design. In 2004, I completed my Masters' in Environmental Studies at York University, specializing in ecological retrofits in the built environment. Of all the courses I teach, I enjoy the Hydraulics course most of all. Nothing gives me more satisfaction than to see the light of understanding in a student's eyes when they finally understand how water moves in a closed or open system.

What the students say:
"In class she does a spectacular job of keeping the students interested, and delivers the information in a way that everyone can understand. In the unlikely chance that a student doesn't understand, she'll take the time needed to help out."

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Howard A. Doughty

2010 | School of English and Liberal Studies - Seneca College |

What the Students Say:
"He is the best professor, with so much experience and knowledge."

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Drew Dowling

2010 | School of Justice and Emergency Services - Durham College | Drew Dowling Drew is a Professor in the Legal Administration Program at Durham College in Oshawa. Drew was born in Toronto and raised in Scarborough where he attended Sir John A MacDonald C.I. As a young man he put himself through University as a door to door salesman, and as a truck driver for a cookie gram company. He also spent a summer in a pop factory, and worked as a taxi driver in the City of Toronto.

Drew graduated from York University with a B.A. in Economics in 1977 and obtained a degree in law from Osgoode Hall Law School in 1981. After graduation he moved to Alberta with his spouse where he worked in private industry selling photocopiers for almost a year before he decided to take his law student articles and train to be a lawyer. In 1983 he moved to St. Paul Alberta (home of the world?s first UFO landing pad) and operated his own law practice there until 1988. His involvement in the community included volunteering with the Kinsmen Club of St. Paul and Lakeland College where he first taught Continuing education courses at night. Drew returned to Ontario in 1988 with his family and continued in the private practice of law in Oshawa. Drew began teaching part-time for Durham College in 1992 and became a full-time faculty member in 1994. He has taught primarily in the Legal Administration program but has also taught Law courses in the Business Program, Court and Tribunal Agent and the Sports Administration programs. He teaches courses in Contracts, Land Planning and Municipal Law, Legal Research, and Taxation. Drew continues to practice law part time in the area of Real Estate and Land Planning law with the Pickering Ontario law firm of Walker Head, one of the largest firms in the Durham Region.

Drew resides in the City of Oshawa with his wife of 28 years Joelle. They have three children, Rachel who is an engineer in training in Toronto, Adam an insurance adjuster in Toronto and Allison who is studying engineering at Dalhousie University in Halifax.

What the students say:
"Through his animated and amusing stories and examples, Drew somehow managed to make even the most unappealing topics interesting!"

"His lectures are informative and stimulating. He also has a great sense of humour and a great attitude."

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Paul Driben

2010 | Department of Anthropology - Lakehead University |

What the students say:
"Paul Driben was my first year anthropology professor -- not only did he make first year lectures less scary, he made them enjoyable. Going to class with Dr. Driben was like going to a comedic performance, he related the perfect amount of personal history with academics and threw in a ton of wit!"

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Norman Dubeski

2010 | Department of Sociology and Anthropology - University of Guelph |

What the Students Say:
"He has helped me by opening my eyes to the many options I have as a student. He prepares you well for exams pushing you to do better because he wants you to pursue your goals and dreams."

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Sangita Dubey

2010 | Department of Economics - Carleton University | Sangita Dubey, a contract instructor in the Department of Economics, Carleton University, received her first experience in university teaching while she was a PhD student in Queen's University's Department of Economics. Because of her MMath in Statistics, Queen's Economics Department thought she was a natural fit for their undergraduate economics and mathematics courses. It didn't take long for her to agree that these subjects were also ones she enjoyed teaching.

Ms Dubey moved to Ottawa to join the public service in 1997, where she joined Statistics Canada, making the best of her graduate training in both economics and statistics. Since then, she has worked in various government departments, including the Department of Finance Canada, Industry Canada, and currently, Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSD). She rejoined the ranks of university instructors in 2003, when she joined Carleton University's roster of contract instructors in the Department of Economics. Her dual career led to her adding courses in Public Finance to her teaching curriculum, with the inevitable benefits of bringing theory to her day job, and real life experience to her classrooms.

Teaching part-time at Carleton while working full-time as a manager in HRSD remains a bit of a juggling act. According to Ms. Dubey, however, "Training tomorrow's knowledge workers and managers requires the same skills and provides the same challenges and opportunities, regardless of whether it occurs in a university or in a workplace. My two careers are very much complementary in nature. Sometimes I do wonder if I can keep up the workload, regardless of how much I enjoy teaching to, and learning from, my students. Every now and then, though, a student walks into my office or sends me an e-mail, and tells me how I made a difference, and these beginnings of doubt vanish. There are only a few things quite as gratifying to me as knowing that I can help someone see the world and themselves, in a different way, and to play a role in their realization of their potential."

What the Students Say:
"As a lecturer, she is wonderful: she is always organized, interacts with the class often and is never dry or boring (despite the subject matter). She has the unique ability to make students want to learn, and do well both in the classroom and outside of it. She is very much invested in her students, and is always willing to help us."

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Andrew DuBois

2010 | Department of English - University of Toronto Scarborough |

What the Students Say:
"Professor DuBois possess rare qualities that not only remove any apprehension students may have towards poetry but he also elucidates on the expressive power that such an art form can possess. His ability to intertwine the past with the contemporary (Shakespeare alongside OutKast, for example) encourages students to engage with and respect poetry in all its forms. His passion and sense of humour make his lectures an engaging and insightful experience."

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Patrice Dutil

2010 | Department of Politics and Public Administration - Ryerson University | Patrice Dutil is Associate Professor in the Department of Politics and Public Administration at Ryerson University. Before joining the department in August 2006, he was the Acting Executive Director and Director of Research at the Institute of Public Administration of Canada (www.ipac.ca). Professor Dutil received his Honours BA from York University and his MA from the Université de Montréal. He received his Ph.D. from York University. He started his career in the Ministry of Intergovernmental Affairs in 1987 as a policy advisor, and then joined TVOntario where he worked both on corporate policy and in programming in a senior capacity. He joined the Institute of Public Administration of Canada as Director of Research in 1999.

Professor Dutil is passionate about Canadian literary matters. In 1991, he founded and edited for five years the monthly Literary Review of Canada (www.reviewcanada.ca). It is now celebrating its 18th year of publication. He is currently vice-President of the Champlain Society (www.champlainsociety.ca), a centenary-old institution that publishes each year documentary materials that describe Canada's past as it was seen by our ancestors. He also sits on the City of Toronto Council's Preservation Board and is the national coordinator of the Canadian Association of Former Parliamentarians "Parliament to Campus" program.

Professor Dutil's main research interests are political and public sector leadership, e-government, regulatory policy and governance, and the policy development process. He is the author of The Politics of Liberal Progressivism in Laurier's Quebec (1994). He recently published an edited collection at the University of Toronto Press on public sector leadership entitled Searching for Leadership: Secretaries to Cabinet in Canada. Next year, his new book on the Ontario Ministry of Finance will be published, again at the University of Toronto Press.

What the Students Say:
"He has the ability to engage his class with ideas on topic while developing students writing, and analytical thinking skills."

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Tom Eng

2010 | School of Business Management - Seneca College | Professor Tom Eng has been teaching business and business ethics at Seneca College since 1993. He is a 3rd generation Chinese born in Chicago, U.S.A. He came to Toronto in 1980 to serve as the minister for the English-speaking congregation at the Chinese Presbyterian Church, a position he still holds. His parishioners include many university students from the University of Toronto and young adults of Chinese descent.

Tom grew up a shy child attending a rough inner city school where he was often bullied and called racial slurs. This experience motivated the young Tom to build his confidence through developing public speaking skills. As a young man, Tom developed a passion for teaching when he started telling stories to children at a church school.

Tom is married with a daughter and son in university. In his late 40s he learned how to snowboard and enjoys hitting the slopes every winter. He also earned a black belt in Taekwondo at the age of 49. Dr. Eng holds a BSc. in business from the University of Illinois in Chicago, a Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry from Trinity Divinity School in Deerfield, IL, and a Master of Sacred Theology from Regis College affiliated with the University of Toronto.

What the students say:
"Tom is a very knowledgeable professor, and he is funny and helpful. He respects students' responses. He is a great person and wonderful teacher."

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Garry Engkent

2010 | School of English and Liberal Studies - Seneca College | Garry Engkent received his doctorate in Shakespeare studies from the University of Ottawa. He has taught at various universities and colleges, including the University of Alberta, University of Guelph, and University of Toronto. At present, he teaches literature at Ryerson University and writing at Seneca College.

His academic and literary interests are diverse: myth and archetypes, immigrant stories, science fiction, children's literature, Shakespeare, and short fiction.

He has written two textbooks Groundwork: Writing Skills to Build On and Fiction/Non-Fiction: A Reader and Rhetoric. The latter is currently being used in the Seneca College curriculum. In addition, he has published several short stories-the best known being "Why My Mother Can't Speak English" which is found in many anthologies.

What the students say:
"He's the best instructor I have ever met. He is also a writer. He just knows how to use words properly."

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Les Evans

2010 | Department of Land Resource Science- University of Guelph |

What the Students Say:
"For years Les has been able to get his students to feel very confident that they have learned something immensely complicated in courses including Aquatic Chemistry, Soil Chemistry, and Clay and Humic Chemistry. Les breaks the topics down into their simplest parts so that the student feels that he or she can address any problem."

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Jan Fedorowicz

2010 | Department of History - Carleton University | Jan Fedorowicz completed a Ph.D at King's College, Cambridge, winning the Ellen MacArthur Prize in Economic History. Over the past 30 years, he has taught history at the University of Western Ontario, the University of Toronto, the University of Ottawa, and York University. His association with Carleton University began in1985 and he has taught a wide range of courses on the history of Early Modern Europe, Russia, Eastern Europe and most recently, terrorism. Two of his books on Polish history have been published by Cambridge University Press. He has also written a number of articles on scholarly topics.

In parallel to his academic career he has also pursued careers as a business author, professional editor and management consultant. He has written books and developed course materials on international trade, telecommunications and business development. He has also edited numerous studies and reports and written on business topics for the Economist Intelligence Unit. Finally, he advised federal departments in areas such as program development, planning, and communication. He conceptualized and designed several major federal online business service initiatives such as the Canada Business Service Centres, ExportSource and BizPaL.

A resident of Ottawa, he continues to divide his time between his interests at Carleton and his work for the federal government.

What the Students Say:
"Professor Fedorowicz taught me early modern European history last year. The course consisted of a weekly three hour lecture... However, Professor Fedorowicz was able to maintain the rapt attention of the entire class throughout the lecture. His knowledge of the subject was deep and broad, and he communicated his passion through interesting asides and anecdotes... He was also able to engage the whole class in discussion, somehow managing to moderate a forum of over a hundred students while keeping the conversation lively."

"Professor Fedorowicz' use of audio and visual materials, his understanding of the facts, data and trivia on all topics discussed at lecture, not to mention his sense of humour, made the course extremely interesting. Furthermore, he treated the students with fairness and respectfulness."

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Alexander Ferworn

2010 | School of Computer Science - Ryerson University | Alex Ferworn is a Professor of Computer Science at Ryerson University where he has been teaching since 1996. He received his PhD degree from the University of Waterloo, his MSc from the University of Guelph and his Bachelor's degree in Computer Science from Ryerson. Before joining Ryerson, he worked for various telecommunication companies and was a member of the Canadian Forces Reserve for fourteen years.

He currently serves as Ryerson's graduate program director for Computer Science. His research interests include robotics, intelligent systems and computational public safety. He is also an Auxiliary member of the Ontario Provincial Police's Provincial Emergency Response Team where he tries to turn his research into practice.

He is happily married with two growing girls who disavow any interest in Computer Science (although he still has hope).

What the Students Say:
"His lectures are quite captivating and delightful. He continuously makes use of brilliant examples to explain the ideas and concepts in thorough detail to us and tries his very best to keep the environment lively. As a student, it's simply a pleasure going to his lecture knowing that it will be an exciting learning environment."

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David Finlay

2010 | School of Electronics and Computer Engineering Technology - Seneca College | In 1974 I graduated, with honours, from the Mohawk College two year Electronics Engineering Technician Program. I progressed onto the three year Electronics Engineering Technology Program, graduating with honours in 1976. I taught a few courses at Mohawk for continuing education.

I married in 1977 and my son Charles was born in 1980. I enrolled in full time Electrical Engineering, McMaster University in 1981 and two years later in 1983, while attending Mac, my daughter Laura was born. I graduated 13th out of 40 in 1984.

I worked at Motorola Canada LTD as a Communications Engineer. While at Motorola, I taught night school at Centennial College. My second daughter Cathleen was born. I was laid off from Motorola in 1986 and started full time teaching at Seneca College. I've loved it ever since. I was Professor, then Coordinator, then Department Chairman and then went back to teaching where I have remained. My main teaching courses are: Analog Communications, Basic Electricity, Electronic Devices and Circuit theory. Teaching first year is my passion.

What the Students Say:
"He makes the subject, Electricity, truly fun and exciting, while maintaining a high standard of education... He has rekindled my interest for the subject with his enthusiastic teaching... David is funny, witty and full of character. I have never been in one of his lectures where the students are not laughing and smiling. He offers a lot of helpful, "real-life" analogies to make the difficult concepts of the science easier to understand."

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Jonathan Finn

2010 | Faculty of Arts, Communications Studies - Wilfrid Laurier University | Dr. Jonathan Finn is Associate Professor of Communication Studies at Wilfrid Laurier University. He teaches courses in media history, visual communication, visual culture and surveillance studies. Dr. Finn enjoys teaching a wide variety of classes, from introductory lectures with hundreds of students, to small, graduate seminars. For Dr. Finn, teaching and learning are dynamic, reflexive practices. A successful teaching and learning environment must acknowledge and account for the unique features and challenges of every teaching situation. In his courses, Dr. Finn strives to build an open, inclusive learning environment and to develop knowledge and skills that are applicable beyond the confines of the classroom and its subject matter. A central goal of his teaching practice is to produce more engaged, aware and self-reflexive citizens.

Dr. Finn has a BA (McMaster) and MA (York) in Art History with a PhD in Visual and Cultural Studies from the University of Rochester. In Rochester, Dr. Finn received extensive training in pedagogy, work that he continues at Wilfrid Laurier University. Dr. Finn is the author of Capturing the Criminal Image: From Mug Shot to Surveillance Society (University of Minnesota Press, 2009), a book that critically examines the diverse roles of photographic representation in modern and contemporary policing. He has published essays in the areas of surveillance studies and visual communication and is currently producing a reader in visual communication and visual culture for Oxford University Press Canada.

Outside the University, Dr. Finn has served as an instructor for the Kitchener Waterloo Art Gallery's docent training program and was an invited lecturer for the recent Andy Warhol exhibition at the Waterloo Regional Children's Museum.

What the students say:
"Dr. Finn does not just allow students to take in information and leave it at the door, but advocates a strong and critical understanding of the material that he presents in each of his lectures. To me, this is what makes a remarkable and gifted professor... He is incredibly mindful of how he presents his lectures in class. Although Dr. Finn is clearly a brilliant individual, he takes the time to ensure that the heavily academic material does not overshadow the fun of learning... Incidentally, he qualified for, and will be running in the Boston Marathon in April."

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Katherine Fledderus

2010 | School of Health & Community Services - Durham College | My initial interest in education was sparked by a desire to learn about effective teaching strategies to reach all students, especially those for students with learning disabilities, ADD and ADHD, the areas personally affecting my family. To that end, in 2005 I pursued a degree in Education with a Special Education focus. I was the recipient of the 2006 Science Teachers Association of Ontario (STAO) Pre-Service Award of Excellence for teaching Chemistry.

My teaching journey at Durham College began in 2006, as a Learning Strategies Advisor, helping students to learn how to study 'smarter, not harder'. I developed the 'Keys to Academic Success' workshop which contributed to the development of the Durham College Success Matters course. This course is delivered to first year students to help them to develop academic skills and strategies to be successful in their studies and eventually the workforce. I am currently sessional faculty with the School of Health and Community Services and the School of Communications, Languages and General Studies. My education background and 15 years employment in the health field has provided me with a strong foundation to teach health science courses from an application point of view.

My passion for each course is definitely student driven. I believe in incorporating curriculum and learning strategies which emphasize the development of critical observation, thinking, and analytical skills directly applicable to students' chosen career path. There is no greater joy for me then seeing my students' link classroom theory into real life application...that is when true learning has taken place!

What the Students Say:
"Professor Fledderus is a remarkable professor. She has the ability to inspire, motivate and capture the minds of young persons as well as nurturing and assisting in the growth of the love of the subjects she teaches."

"Katherine puts an enormous amount of effort into preparation for her lectures. Her visual aids are meticulously organized. She also encourages class participation and is devoted to student success."

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Thomas Fleming

2010 | Criminology and Contemporary Studies - Wilfrid Laurier Brantford |

What the students say:
"He makes every class enjoyable and keeps us anxious to hear more. I wish that his classes could be longer as I learn so much from his personal stories and experiences in the field of Criminology."

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Mindi Foster

2010 | Faculty of Science, Psychology Department - Wilfrid Laurier University |

What the students say:
"Super nice teacher, explained all material very thoroughly. Best teacher I've had yet!"

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Mark Fox

2010 | Health and Wellness Studies, School of Community and Health Studies - Centennial College | Mark Fox graduated from the Canadian College of Massage and Hydrotherapy in the spring of 1997 and registered as a Massage Therapist in September 2007. Soon after becoming a Massage Therapist Mark was contacted by the Canadian College to return as a teaching assistant and Clinical supervisor. Within a year of taking the teaching assistant position at Canadian College Mark was offered a teaching position in Fredericton, New Brunswick at the Kine' Concept Institute for Massage Therapy.

Due to some unfortunate circumstances Mark arrived at the Kine' Concept Institute to find that the chief instructor and several assistants had left the school. At that point Mark became responsible for teaching the majority of courses for this three year program until more instructors could be hired. Mark averaged 65 contact hours one week and 45 contact hours on alternating weeks for an entire school year. These experiences allowed Mark to apply for and get hired to work at Centennial College in September of 1999. Mark worked on a part-time basis with Centennial College until being hired as a full time Professor of Massage Therapy in September 2004.

Since Mark was hired full time in 2004 he has been awarded the George Wicken Memorial teaching award at Centennial College, the National Institute of Leadership Development award from the University of Texas, the Board of Governor's Teaching Excellence award from Centennial College and was previously nominated for TVO's Best Lecturer award.

What the students say:
"Mark was an engaging, creative and at times flamboyant prof! His desire to help students learn, as well as bring information to a more relevant, real-life context made me WANT to attend his classes and learn. Even neuro-anatomy!"

"He makes the hard things easy. He's smart, funny and also a good person. He knows what he's talking about because of his experience in the field. A good listener but even better teacher."

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Mark Frayne

2010 | School of Justice and Emergency Services - Durham College |

What the Students Say:
"He made classes very enjoyable by always being prepared, lively, and enthused about whatever he was teaching that day. He has a passion for teaching the law. He also told us "you know more than you think" when some of us expressed doubt in our abilities. I feel Mark Frayne played a significant role in shaping my attitude towards the legal profession and the importance of life long learning."

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Leonard Friesen

2010 | Department of History - Wilfrid Laurier University | I have been on the faculty of Wilfrid Laurier University since 1994. I received the University's Hoffmann-Little Award in 2006 "in recognition of developing excellent rapport and inspiring students, positively contributing to Laurier's reputation, and having a history of distinguished service to Laurier and the wider community".

I'm a specialist in Russian history, the founding Chair of Laurier's Global Studies Program, and past President of the Canadian Consortium of University Programs in International Development Studies.

My most recent publication is "Rural Revolutions in Southern Ukraine" (Harvard: HURI, 2008). I also serve currently as the University Advisor on the Internationalization of our emerging Brantford campus.

What the Students Say:
"Dr. Friesen is a very gifted and enthusiastic professor and I have been blessed to have him. This gentleman comes to his lecture each day with a positive attitude and has contributed much to my learning."

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Heather Fritzley

2010 | School of Community Liberal Studies - Sheridan College Davis Campus | Dr. V. Heather Fritzley grew up in Unionville, Ontario and received her Ph.D. in Psychology from Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario. She is currently a full-time psychology professor at Sheridan Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning in Ontario. Dr. Fritzley specializes in social psychology and her research interests include the effect of various questioning techniques on young children's responses and eyewitness abilities. She has conducted research on children's ability to answer "yes-no" questions regarding different entities, and is starting to focus on their responses to other types of questions, such as multiple-choice questions and tag questions. Dr. Fritzley has presented at various conferences in the area of psychology, including the biennial meeting of the Society for Applied Research in Memory and Cognition in Aberdeen, Scotland, the biennial meeting of the American Psychology-Law Society in Austin, Texas, and at numerous biennial meetings of the Society for Research in Child Development across North America. She is the co-author of Psychology, 1st Canadian Edition and Mastering Social Psychology, 1st Canadian Edition, textbooks for students in introductory and social psychology courses.

Dr. Fritzley teaches a variety of psychology courses including introductory psychology, social psychology, personality psychology, cognitive psychology, the psychology of cults and the psychology of prejudice. She is very passionate about the quest for knowledge and believes strongly in the idea that the best teachers are the ones who are always learning.

When Dr. Fritzley is not teaching, she enjoys cheering on the Toronto Maple Leafs, reading thrillers, taking photographs, and playing both indoor and outdoor soccer.

What the students say:
"Heather Fritzley tried so many ways of engaging her classes. From playing Jeopardy, to group presentations, she was always throwing something unique out there to cater to everyone's learning styles. Most profs wouldn't give a hoot about you but Ms. Fritzley made a point of checking in with people and making it known that she was available... She is a very kind-hearted and spirited individual, who makes the effort to help her students."

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Peter Froehlich

2010 | Department of Theatre - University of Ottawa |

What the Students Say:
"Professor Froehlich teaches Theatre History... a class that could (potentially, and in the wrong hands) become very, very dull. He worked hard to engage his class, to ensure that all material was effectively covered, and to make things as interesting as possible."

"Professor Froehlich was very understanding, very educational and very entertaining... He made his class the kind of class that made you want to be there."

"He's just amazing."

"He makes class ridiculously interesting."

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James Fullard

2010 | Department of Cell & Systems Biology - University of Toronto Mississauga |

What the Students Say:
"Whether lecturing on animal behaviour, neurophysiology, or sensory integration, Prof. Fullard's enthusiasm, breadth of knowledge, precision, and clarity, never fails to ignite the spark of scientific curiosity within any listener."

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Gary Gannon

2010 | School Business, IT & Management - Durham College |

What the students say:
"Overall, well educated and presents information in a professional yet understandable manner. Always wanting the best for his students."

"His classes involve not only traditional lectures but he utilizes group discussions and makes learning an all encompassing experience by tying in current events, the students' own personal experiences as well as his own in helping to explain and understand concepts. He takes a proactive approach in trying to get the best out of the students and is always fair in evaluations. One example of his dedication to teaching is an incident during final exams when our regular teacher was unable to attend and so Prof Gannon proctored the exam even though he hadn't taught us the course. But to ensure he was ready for any questions we might have, he actually read the entire text book in the week before the exam!"

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Amber Gazso

2010 | Department of Sociology - York University |
Amber Gazso is an Assistant Professor of Sociology at York University. She received her BA in Criminal Justice from the University of the Fraser Valley (BC) and her MA in Sociology from the University of Western Ontario. She completed her PhD in Sociology at the University of Alberta in 2006. At York University, she primarily teaches sociology courses in the areas of family and gender relations and social policy.

Amber's research interests include citizenship, gender and families, the feminization and racialization of poverty, and social policy and the welfare state. Her recent publications in such journals as Women's Studies International Forum, Citizenship Studies and Family Relations focus on mothers' experiences of everyday life while on social assistance, especially how they experience the introduction of welfare-to-work policies and the concurrent transformations of their social citizenship rights to income support. Her current research, funded by a Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council Standard Grant, explores how diverse Canadian families manage social and economic needs through networks of formal and informal social support, including intergenerational relationships among family members and friends.

Amber's passion for both teaching and research stems from her belief that the two are integrally connected. One of the main reasons that she greatly enjoys teaching is because it is through her learning of students' knowledge and opinions that her own knowledge and assumptions about research in any area are challenged or sharpened.

What the Students Say:
"She is passionate about her area of study (social assistance in Canada) and her dedication is apparent in every class. Professor Gazso is the one professor who is changing the world one lecture at a time. Her classes should be mandatory for every student at York University, regardless of their chosen field of study."

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Robert Gebotys

2010 | Faculty of Science, Psychology Department - Wilfrid Laurier University | Robert Gebotys received his B.Sc. degree in psychology specializing in psychophysiology, and Masters degree in Developmental Psychology both from the University of Toronto. He received his Ph.D degree in Statistics from the University of Toronto in 1984.

Since 1984 he has been a faculty member of the Psychology department at Wilfrid Laurier University. He has published a number of research papers in psychology and statistics as well as providing statistical consulting to the university community.

Robert Gebotys was the recipient of the 2005 Wilfrid Laurier University Award for Teaching Excellence.

What the Students Say:
"Dr. Gebotys was not only a passionate and effective lecturer who was very knowledgeable in the topics he taught, he was also effective in knowing how to respond to students' level of engagement. Teaching stats to math-aversive psych students is not an easy task and he handles queries and anxious students with ease."

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Steven Gedeon

2010 | Entrepreneurship & Strategy Department, Ted Rogers School of Management - Ryerson University | Prof. Steven A. Gedeon, PhD, MBA, PEng is a professor in the Entrepreneurship & Strategy Department at the Ted Rogers School of Management at Ryerson University. He is a serial entrepreneur and venture capitalist who has founded or led over a dozen private, public, venture capital and non-profit organizations; published over 100 articles, reports and patents; and delivered over 40 public speaking engagements and on-line videos on personal leadership, motivation, negotiation, entrepreneurship and teaching.

Dr. Gedeon has won over 20 awards including the inaugural 2009 Ryerson Experiential Teaching Award and the 2009 USASBE National Award for Entrepreneurial Experiential Education Best Practices. As Faculty Advisor to Students in Free Enterprise (SIFE), Steve provides experiential teaching to over 100 students from all five Ryerson faculties and coached the team to winning 3 Regional Championships the National Entrepreneurship Championship and the National Financial Literacy Championship.

Dr. Gedeon is Director of the Ryerson Entrepreneur Institute, Director of the Ryerson Angel Network, Managing Director of the Dobson Micro-Financing Seed Venture Fund, Chairman of CEO Fusion, Chairman of the Educational Committee of the National Angel Organization, Faculty Advisor to Students in Free Enterprise Ryerson, and Advisor to the Ontario Partnership for Innovation and Commercialization.

What the Students Say:
"Dr. Steven Gedeon is an exceptional teacher and was awarded the Ryerson Experiential Teaching Award. He turns classroom learning into a dynamic and realistic environment where students gain real-world experience... When we struggled he was there to help us recognize where we went wrong and identify the key lesson. When we succeeded he was our biggest fan. Above all Steve has taught me what it means to have integrity; to mean what you say, to keep commitments, and to be confident."

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Patrizia Gentile

2010 | Pauline Jewett Institute of Women's and Gender Studies - Carleton University |

What the Students Say:
"She is so passionate about what she teaches! This prof is very interesting and she knows what she is saying and how to say it. She makes you WANT to come to class and listen to what she has to say. She also asks the class to participate in the discussions and we have amazing discussions that relate to the course."

"Prof. Gentile always unpacks complicated feminist theory into incredibly accessible lectures... She is also active in many outreach programs and practices what she preaches in her personal time. No professor makes learning as fun and as challenging as she does."

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Noel George

2010 | Department of Chemistry and Biology - Ryerson University |

What the students say:
"Asks questions that require critical thinking; Funny, makes lectures interesting; Lectures are clear and easy to understand; Nice; Patient."

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Vincent Georgie

2010 | Odette School of Business - University of Windsor | Vincent E. Georgie received seven citations for Pedagogical Excellence while lecturing at HEC Montreal between 2004-2008. He was the top-evaluated lecturer in the Marketing department during his tenure, and has lectured on Marketing Research and Market Analysis at the MBA and undergraduate levels. He began lecturing at age 23. After only three months at the Odette School of Business at the University of Windsor in 2009, Professor Georgie received the Marketing Professor of the Year Award. He is currently Odette's top-ranked professor in Student Evaluations of Teaching. He teaches Advertising, International Marketing, and Marketing Problems at the MBA and undergraduate levels.

He holds an HBA in Management, English Literature and Theatre (University of Toronto), and an MBA in Marketing (University of Windsor). His PhD in Marketing (HEC Montreal) is concerned with the marketing of the film industry, most particularly the effects of online promotional tools with young consumers. Professor Georgie has presented his research internationally. Professor Georgie has given nearly 100 professional workshops in the past 10 years to corporations, not for profit organizations and high school students. He is a facilitator with FESFO (Federation of Franco-Ontarian Youth) where he has given high-school students around the province workshops on issues dealing with leadership, public speaking, social change and pro-activity.

Professor Georgie's teaching philosophy relies on five key dimensions: challenge, the critical mind, passion, access, and ambassadorship.

What the students say:
"I can honestly say that he has been the most influential lecturer I have ever had. His lectures captivate the attention of all the students in the room and he is able to relate many of his own real life experiences and case examples into the lectures with ease... After only one class with him last semester it was clear to me that this man was an extremely talented public speaker. I learned more course content and gained more real world experience by being enrolled in his classes than I have in my entire University career."

"Professor Georgie's lectures are inspiring. Using real life examples he adds to the information that needs to be taught in new and creative ways... The passion and energy in his voice, and the time he puts into his work make his students eager to pay attention in class. Furthermore, the way he genuinely cares about each of his students' progress encourages them to push themselves beyond their limits."

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Kris Gerhardt

2010 | Laurier Brantford - Wilfrid Laurier University | After completing my Hons. B.A. in Psychology at McMaster, I joined the department as a graduate student. Towards the end of my Ph.D. I was approached to teach a Saturday morning Introductory Psychology class. The experience was very anxiety provoking. I tried to deliver the course content with humour and personal examples, much in the way Dr. John Mitterer and George Nogradi had when I was pursuing my first undergraduate degree at Brock University. The passion that they conveyed during their lectures had stuck with me, as had a good portion of the course material. I came away from teaching that first course with the feeling that I had found an occupation that would allow me to have an impact on others in a positive fashion and still allow me the interaction with people and continual change I enjoyed.

After several years of part-time teaching I managed to secure a series of limited-term contracts at the Brantford Campus of Wilfrid Laurier University, where I am currently in a tenure-track position. The interdisciplinary nature of this Liberal Arts campus has afforded me the opportunity to teach a wide variety of classes, and to try and relate the concepts and breadth of Psychology as a discipline to a group of students who are not, for the most part, Psychology majors. The challenge of integrating new research findings, with the core concepts found in any Psychology course and relating the material to disparate disciplines is a true challenge and one that makes it incredibly easy to go to work in the morning. My present appointment to the Leadership program has allowed me to combine my interest in the communications process with research into teaching practices and methods of delivery. My goal in any class or seminar is to present the material in a way that will interest my students enough that they will want to investigate it further. If any of my students can sit back in 10 or 20 years and remember the material that I have covered, in the same way that I remember the material and passion presented by some of my past professors, then I believe that I will have been successful.

My wife and I currently live in Burlington with our two children where we spend our family time at dance competitions, skating, swimming and learning how to perfect the art of cooking a roast of beef on the backyard BBQ.

What the students say:
"Kris is an amazing professor who takes a daunting subject such as Psychology and makes it interesting. His classes are stimulating, different and unforgettable... In a class of upwards of 300 everyone gets to partake in experiments. He is loud and easy to understand."

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Mary Gerritsma

2010 | School of English and Liberal Studies - Seneca College |

What the Students Say:
"She is a dedicated, clear, professional, and understanding professor."

"She always makes the class vivid, with the help of film, poems and novels. She looks into the hearts of her students and communicates with them with what she teaches."

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Natalia Gilewicz

2010 | School of Graphic Communications Management - Ryerson University | Natalia Gilewicz is an Assistant Professor at the School of Graphic Communications Management, Ryerson University. Her teaching concentrations include design, typography, sales and management. Gilewicz is also the Associate Editor of Graphic Arts Magazine, one of Canada's four trade publications geared toward the printing industry. Her recent articles include Sales and management: effective practices for today (October, 2009) and Women in Print (May 2009). In addition to the magazine, Gilewicz recently co-authored a book about digital photography for the printing industry (Digital Photography for Print, R. Adams, N. Gilewicz, M. Habekost, A. Seto, Printing Industries Press, August 2009).

Gilewicz is an MMSc candidate, specializing in Social Networking. Her current research agenda includes a variety of topic areas such as: social networking, infographics and design management. She strongly feels that teaching happens best through doing. She aspires to give her students a voice, allowing them to learn in new ways. Her classroom is a safe place to share ideas and make mistakes. Overcoming obstacles, she believes, is the fastest way to learning something about the world. She is deeply humbled that her students have recognized her passion for teaching.

What the students say:
"She's a great lecturer!"

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Daniel Glenday

2010 | Department of Sociology - Brock University | Daniel Glenday holds a B.A (Distinction) from Sir George Williams University (now Concordia University), an M.A. from McGill University and a Ph.D. from Carleton University. He is a tenured, Full Professor at Brock University where he founded the Labour Studies Program - an interdisciplinary undergraduate degree program with the collaboration of faculty members in the Departments of Sociology, Political Science and Economics.

His research and teaching interests for over thirty years concentrated on technological change in the workplace. His research work has appeared in the British Journal of Sociology; Review: A Journal of the Fernand Braudel Centre; New Technology, Work and Employment and The Journal of Men's Studies. He has co-authored/edited several books including Canadian Society: Meeting the Challenges of the 21st Century (with Ann Duffy and Norene Pupo), Good Jobs, Bad Jobs, No Jobs: The Transformation of Work in the 21st Century (with Ann Duffy and Norene Pupo) and Shifting Landscape of Work: Surviving and Prospering in the 'New' Economy (also with Ann Duffy and Norene Pupo) to be published in September 2010.

Recently he has taken up the examination of professional wrestling as a "spectacle of excess" as reflected in the changing character of popular culture. He is to be featured in an upcoming documentary to be aired in August 2010 on Canal D in Québec.

What the Students Say:
"This prof is one of the greatest lecturers at Brock University. He teaches "The Sociology of Professional Wrestling", a course that is exclusive to Brock. Come on, who wouldn't die to take that?... The class is always packed and always willing to participate. Hands down, the greatest Sociology prof at Brock University."

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Jean Golden

2010 | Department of Sociology - Ryerson University | Jean Golden has been a professor of Sociology at Ryerson University for 38 years. She has an extensive background in anti-sexist and anti-racist education, research and community work.

Professor Golden had been involved with women's issues since the late 1960's. As the first female Chair of the Sociology Department, she co-developed Ryerson's first Women's Studies course in the mid-1970's and today teaches two courses in this area: Feminism and Society, and Women and Human Rights. She wrote the University's first comprehensive Human Rights Policy, and was Senior Director of its first anti-discrimination office. She co-authored the Ontario Federation of Faculty Union's first equity policy and spent 20 years on the Ryerson Faculty Union executive fighting for the inclusion of equity positions and issues in union activities and contracts. She was awarded a Ryersonian of the Year award for her equity work and two SHERO awards by the Ryerson Student Union for her teaching and work with female students.

In the broader community, she had been a community organizer, the producer of a Women's television show, taught Black History and developed equity committees in the pubic school system. She has conducted research, lead workshops and developed programmes around sexual violence, racism, workplace violence, employment and educational equity. She is currently writing a book about Biracial Identity in Canada and researching the 60 year history of the Sociology Department at Ryerson.

What the Students Say:
"Jean Golden is an amazing professor because she is incredibly passionate about what she teaches, and that passion transfers onto her students."

"She is the most awesome person I've ever met in my life! She is extremely empowering and understanding, her three hour lectures are a weekly treat!"

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Jo Gomes

2010 | Faculty of Applied Arts and Health Sciences - Seneca College | Mahatma Gandhi, one of the greatest peaceable leaders in history has said, 'be the change you want to see in the world.' The profundity of this statement resonates with me and most accurately reflects my teaching philosophy for many reasons.

The path towards my current route has always included aspects of social work, be it through my earlier formal college education at Seneca College, in the Social Service Worker Program, or in the ensuing years as an employee within various social service agencies. My experience within the social service community began over two decades ago, upon graduating from Seneca College. In September 2006, I began to work within the Social Service Worker program at Seneca College, as a professor. I am now a member of staff, however, I contend that I remain a 'student' in the sense that I continue to learn from those whom I now instruct. My potential for effecting change in the lives and the education of the students at Seneca College could have a 'ripple effect' of change at the agencies these students will be employed within. This is an opportunity which I neither take for granted nor underestimate.

I split my time teaching and counselling. I have over 20 years of experience working as an advocate in the social service sector. I have been able to use my social work interventions skills and knowledge of the varied agencies to enhance my delivery of information and effectively enhance students' success at the college. In 2008, I had the honour to receive The Seneca Distinguished Alumni Award. I am also a graduate of Ryerson receiving a Bachelor Degree in Social Work. I most recently received my Masters Degree in Social Work at York University.

What the Students Say:
"She has the interest of all her students at heart."

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Root Gorelick

2010 | Department of Biology and School of Mathematics and Statistics - Carleton University | Root Gorelick is an evolutionary theorist in the Department of Biology (cross-appointed in the School of Mathematics & Statistics) at Carleton University. He also was trained and has worked in physics and economics.

His primary research is on why sex originated and is so ubiquitous, including organisms that only have sex with themselves.

What the Students Say:
"He's a great professor. He makes his lectures very interesting. He takes the time to explain things thoroughly."

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Pamela Grassau

2010 | Department of Social Work - Carleton University | "Knowledge emerges only through invention and re-invention, through the restless, impatient, continuing, hopeful inquiry human beings pursue in the world, with the world, and with each other." (Freire, 1970, p. 58)

I'm a Sessional Instructor in the School of Social Work at Carleton University. Currently I teach Research Methods for Social Work - a required course for students in the Bachelor of Social Work Program. Prior to teaching at Carleton, I taught as a Sessional Instructor in the School of Social Work at Ryerson University. Over the years I have spent a fair amount of time thinking about how my teaching in the classroom reflects the values that I hold as a social worker. This touches on how I teach and what I teach, as well as how learning and teaching can be measured as we prepare students to be social workers. Drawing on a range of teaching styles and formats, I believe that my job as an educator is find a way to bridge theory and concepts with meaningful, real-life situations. Having the opportunity to bring research methods 'alive' so that students can think critically about research, and encouraging them to think about how they might bring research into their practice, offers me much hope for the future of our profession.

I'm also a PhD candidate in the Factor-Inwentash Faculty of Social Work at University of Toronto. Building on community based research that I engaged in while working with the Ontario Breast Cancer Community Research Initiative in Toronto, my doctoral work focuses on relational narratives of breast cancer, specifically those between mothers and their adolescent daughters. Using qualitative and arts-based methods in this site I engage openly and explicitly about 'difference' across experiences, identities, roles, and contexts. Other areas of interest are: community based participatory research and social action, the application of intersectionality and anti-oppressive theory in health, and teaching and engaging with a wide range of quantitative and qualitative research methods.

What the Students Say:
"She speaks very passionately about her interest in course materials and seems to genuinely care about how the students in her class do. She is very approachable and charismatic during the lectures."

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David Gray - Finalist

2010 | Department of Economics - University of Ottawa | David Gray was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA, USA. He received his BA at Kalamazoo College in the state of Michigan, and received his Phd in economics at the University of Michigan in 1990. Shortly thereafter, he joined the economics department at the University of Ottawa - becoming a Canadian resident totally unexpectedly. His research interests are in the areas of labour market policy - particularly unemployment insurance and programs for displaced workers - and earnings mobility and inequality. He is also interested in the French economy. Almost all of his research consists of applied empirical economics, much of it with a public policy focus. He has worked on research projects for Human Resources and Social Development Canada continuously over the past 15 years and the Social Research and Demonstration Corporation. He has published a total of about 35 pieces of scientific literature in various types of venues. His teaching activities include the standard introductory courses, econometrics, and labour economics. He is the author of the study guide for the dominant undergraduate labour economics textbook in Canada. He served as the director of undergraduate studies with only a few interruptions between 1993 and 2009.

After obtaining his BA degree from a teaching-oriented college, he spent a miserable two years as a 'research economist' at an economics consulting company. He then entered the Phd. program in economics at the University of Michigan in 1983. In January 1984 he received a totally unexpected phone call from the office of the graduate studies of the economics department: 'would he be interested in teaching two sections of the first-year course in microeconomics?' Within 3 hours, he was addressing his first - but not his last - group of students. That was the extent of his screening and his training as a pedagogue. Within a week or so, he decided that he loved to teach - although to this day he admits that he does not care for grading papers. After the first term, he was still inexperienced as a pedagogue, but he was quite confident in his aspiration to a career in university teaching.

Since his appointment at the University of Ottawa in 1990, he has taught mostly at the undergraduate level. In a typical academic year, he is responsible for nearly 1,000 students (500 per term). By the month of April of each academic year, the students have probably had enough of him (he tends to be in their face), and he has had enough of teaching. Nonetheless, so far his battery has always been recharged by the following September, and he will probably teach these large first, second, and third year courses until the end of his career. As far as his teaching style is concerned, he is known for his antics, which are not run-of-the-mill in nature. He is also known for advancing through the material rather slowly, clearly, and methodically - to the point of repetition in regards to the recurring themes. Most of the students consider him to be pretty dedicated.

What the Students Say:
"He presents his lectures in a very organized, logical manner. He maintains a website in which he posts tips, reminders, links to related news stories, and also contributes to the discussion forums... In a lecture hall full of 416 university students, Professor Gray exhibits an extremely high level of enthusiasm throughout the entire hour and a half, twice a week, every week."

video button Professor David Gray's lecture submission.

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Michael Graydon

2010 | Department of Sociology and Anthropology - Carleton University | Michael Graydon is a graduate student in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, Carleton University. Currently he is completing the writing of his dissertation and hopes (will!) defend it early in 2010. His research involves an analysis of the lesbian and gay rights organization, Gays of Ottawa, 1971-1995.

While he had occasionally given guest- lectures, the fall of 2009 provided his very first opportunity to teach a formal course. This made his nomination to TVO's competition both a real surprise and honour. Twice a week Michael lectures to over 400 first year students enrolled in an Introduction to Sociology course. He draws on his background as a gay men's community-based HIV prevention educator, and degree in art history. Combined, this allows him to bring a level of comfort and honesty to all lectures, which contain lots visual and historical information. As students enter the lecture hall music is playing. The music energizes the hall, reflects the lecture topic (not always easy!) and provides a way to signal class is about to begin, as the music concludes. Lectures are also audio-taped so students can listen to them on the course web page.

For Michael beginning to teach slowed work on his dissertation but on the upside, it put him in touch with his real calling. While it gives the 'performer' side of him to come out, it also allows him to enact critical elements of his approach to teaching. He believes projecting a sense of humour, approachability, honesty and respect for students, a deep awareness of their presence and a sense of empathy are all critical to connecting with students. Applying lessons learned as a TA, as an instructor he stresses that both he and his TAs need to be present for students, conveying an understanding that students attend university for all kinds of reasons. But regardless - they are all here and we need to respect and acknowledge that.

What the Students Say:
"Professor Graydon is an absolutely hilarious professor. He brings every class to life and makes the content very appealing to the students enrolled in the course."

"Professor Graydon engages the class and makes sure that the class is paying attention by not only explaining the information well but he also gives examples that can make the class stay attentive and listening."

"Entertaining, smart and a great lecturer."

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Elissa Green

2010 | School of Tourism - Seneca College | Elissa Green is a professor at Seneca's School of Tourism in the Faculty of Business at the Markham Campus She has been teaching at Seneca since January 2008, after being a guest lecturer here, several times.

After graduating from the University of Toronto, and the Travel & Tourism program at the Toronto School of Business, Elissa began her journey in the wonderful world of tourism. Now, she brings almost 25 years of experience in the travel industry to the classroom. Elissa has worked as a retail agent, reservations agent, as a product buyer, director of Sales & Marketing, brochure copywriter, as well as representing an international hotel chain to the Canadian Travel Industry.

What the Students Say:
"Mrs. Green was a truly inspirational teacher. She knows how to teach a class in a way that makes everyone excited to be there and also allows everyone to participate."

"She brings a joy to the classroom, also a notion that she wants to be there and will take as much time as it takes for everyone to understand it all. Not only was it her joy but her method of teaching that encouraged me to study and to put forth the effort in all of her classes."

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Raymond Grinnell

2010 | Department of Computer and Mathematical Sciences - University of Toronto Scarborough | Raymond Grinnell is a Senior Lecturer of Mathematics at the University of Toronto at Scarborough (UTSC). A native of Toronto, he earned a B.Sc. at UTSC and a Ph.D. from Queen's.

He has taught at universities in three Canadian provinces, in Long Island, New York, and in Barbados. Since returning to UTSC in 2003, he has taught a wide range of undergraduate math courses at all levels, but has an especially keen interest in teaching first-year students.

Raymond is also into his third decade as an avid long-distance runner.

What the Students Say:
"Professor Grinnell is a very enthusiastic Calculus professor... He is a very friendly, courteous, supportive and encouraging teacher and always treats his students with respect... He also has a great sense of humour and is always relaxed while teaching and never gets hyper if students ask a lot of questions. Professor Grinnell always takes time to explain any difficult concepts with easy examples & gives individual attention to students."

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Derek Gruchy

2010 | School of Fire Protection Technology - Seneca College | My name is Derek Gruchy and I have been a professor at Seneca College for 3 years. Prior to working at Seneca, I worked in the field of fire protection engineering consulting. I was born in Barrie and currently reside there as well. My father was in the military and so I have lived across Canada throughout my life.

I moved to Ottawa, to attend Carleton University, and received my bachelor degree in Mechanical Engineering as well as my masters degree in Fire Protection Engineering. My thesis was "Occupant Evacuation From Buildings During Fire Emergencies". As part of my research, I performed tests on the effect of smoke on the speed of people evacuating a hallway. The results of these tests were used in the occupant evacuation computer model I designed to simulate occupants slowing down due to smoke and heat spread through the building.

I have always wanted to teach and now I have been blessed with the opportunity to do just that in my field of study. I have recently been promoted to coordinator of the Fire Protection Engineering Technology program, at Seneca, and look forward to many years of providing the industry with well-prepared students. I am honoured that students have nominated me and will try to continue to lecture in such a manner that students relate to.

What the Students Say:
"Derek is a professor who relates well to the students, makes jokes with them, and is constantly working hard so that they leave the college feeling confident and prepared!"

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Lisa Guglielmi

2010 | Centre for Human Resources - Seneca College |

What the Students Say:
"She is the most knowledgeable professor at Seneca College. Her lectures are very interesting, with real-life examples."

"Lisa Guglielmi has a presence about her that engages her students immediately and makes them want to learn more... She has a way of working with material she teaches to make it her own. I always thought she should be hosting her own 'subject matter expert' show on WTN or something! :-)"

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Nadia Habib - Finalist

2010 | Humanities, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies - York University | Nadia Habib is contract faculty at York University. This year Nadia is teaching in Human Rights & Equity Studies & in Sociology. She also TAs for a foundation course in Humanities. Her own research focuses on Egyptian cultural life. Her PhD Dissertation (which she hopes to finish sometime in the not too distant future), examines the role and impact of Umm Kulthum, Egypt's most enduring cultural icon on Egypt's struggles with the challenges of modernity. Her work is grounded in psychoanalysis and philosophy, particularly Jacques Derrida's reading of Sigmund Freud's analysis of resistance.

Before returning to academia, she worked in theatre: performing, directing and producing live theatre in both English and French in different parts of Canada, including Montreal, Toronto and Edmonton. Nadia is also a poet and activist, and was the recipient of TAC grant for poetry. She continues to be involved in creative projects, and wrote and participated in the narration of "A Hot Sand Filled Wind," the third installment of b.h. Yael's film, Palestine Trilogy.

Last year, Nadia Habib collaborated with Maryem Tollar, Toronto world music performer, to develop a narrative around issues of displacement and belonging to accompany the Maryem Tollar Group's release of their CD Cairo to Toronto. Together, Maryem & Nadia are preparing a new work, Journey from Alif to Zed, for the Luminato Festival.

What the students say:
"Nadia Habib is by far the most dynamic lecturer I have ever had. She takes hard issues and taboo topics and creates an environment where students feel free to express their views. She has made me a better person"

video button Professor Nadia Habib's lecture submission.

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Dave Hackett

2010 | Department of Biology - Nipissing University | Dr. Dave Hackett is Chair of the Department of Biology and Chemistry at Nipissing University. He received an H.B.Sc. in Wildlife Biology from the University of Guelph, an M.Sc. in Biology from Laurentian University, and a Ph.D. in Zoology from the University of Alberta. He and his students study the environmental biology of amphibians, reptiles and small mammals in Canadian forests.

Dr. Hackett teaches a wide variety of courses at Nipissing University ranging from first-year Environmental Science with an enrollment of 250 students to the 4th year thesis courses in which students receive individual instruction throughout their research projects. His other regular courses include Animal Ecology, Animal Behaviour, Vertebrate Zoology, and Environmental Biology Seminars. Some special courses have included: 1) annual week-long fall or winter field camps at the Lake Talon Research Preserve, and 2) the CIDA-sponsored "St. Lucia Project" in which Nipissing faculty presented environmental lectures to students, teachers, and members of government on the island of St. Lucia over a period of seven years.

Dr. Hackett, aided by a group of student researchers, co-authored a widely used environmental science textbook, "Living in the Environment - First Canadian Edition" (Miller and Hackett 2008). The second edition of that textbook will be published in 2010. Dr. Hackett has coached Nipissing students to victories in international environmental essay contests three times. Many of his students have won prestigious NSERC research awards and gone on to pursue graduate studies. Dr. Hackett has won the Chancellor's Award for Excellence in Teaching, and he has been identified as a top professor in MacLean's ratings of Canadian universities and professors.

What the students say:
"The material he lectures about may not always be the most exciting material to be listening to for multiple hours, but Dr. Hackett always finds a way to throw in a few jokes as well as keep the students involved by doing polls and asking opinions. He gives students a better understanding of the material by putting key points up on slides... instead of paragraphs. Sitting in one of his lectures is interesting no matter the topic."

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Helen Haines

2010 | Department of Anthropology - Trent University in Oshawa | Helen R. Haines obtained her Ph.D. from the Institute of Archaeology, University of London, England, in 2000, and her B.A. in Anthropology from the University of Toronto in 1994. She also held a 3-year Post-Doctoral research appointment in the Department of Anthropology at The Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago, IL. Currently, she is a non-tenure-track Associate Professor with the Department of Anthropology at Trent University, Peterborough. She has also taught with the Departments of Anthropology at the University of Toronto Mississauga and McMaster University, Hamilton.

Her primary research interest focuses on the socio-political and economic development of early complex societies in Mesoamerica. She is Director of the Ka'Kabish Archaeological Research Project (KARP), a SSHRC supported research project in North-Central Belize. Her research there explores new ideas surrounding the mobility of ancient Maya royal courts and the possible existence of political and economic heterarchies within the ancient Maya polities of the Northern Belize Coastal Plain.

Although Professor Haines' primary area of focus is ancient Maya culture her interests are wide ranging and extend to other areas of the world. A second research project works to understand the history of activity at Princess Point in the Cootes Paradise Watershed, Hamilton, Ontario. The Princess Point site provides information about an important transition point in Ontario history when subsistence practices shifted from dependence on hunting and gathering to incorporate maize agriculture.

What the students say:
"She makes a student strive to understand concepts and expects her students to share thoughts, answers and ideas. Not only does she methodically organize lecture material to interconnect with each chapter of the semester but she intertwines related knowledge apart from the course. She leaves students with a broader and brighter understanding of Anthropology and hungry for more."

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David Hamilton

2010 | Department of English - Carleton University |

What the Students Say:
"He incorporated recent examples within his lectures, and kept us entertained with music and video clips... He always made an 8:30 class enjoyable, especially during the Ottawa bus strike last winter!"

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Paul Hamilton.

2010 | Department of Political Science - Brock University | Paul Hamilton is an Associate Professor of Political Science at Brock University. He is a graduate of Brock (BA), McMaster (MA), and Alberta (Ph.D). Professor Hamilton teaches introductory political science, politics of the European Union, and nationalism and ethnic politics. He has been at Brock since 2001.

His research interests include the politics of nationalism in Western liberal democracies, the politics of the environment, and the politics of religion in multicultural societies.

What the Students Say:
"Makes Intro to Political Science fun, enjoyable, which all makes it easier to learn the information that he is trying to get across to the students."

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Geoffrey Hancock

2010 | School of Community Liberal Studies - Sheridan College Davis Campus | Contrary to popular CSI TV episodes "Crime scene investigations take more than an hour to solve." As an instructor and guest lecturer, Geoffrey Hancock's audience benefits from his 35 years in law enforcement. When asked why he chose policing as a career, his response was "the opportunity presented itself", offering the chance to work outdoors and with people. Geoff's policing career started in 1966 with the Ontario Provincial Police. From there he moved to the Mississauga City Police, later to become part of the Peel Regional Police. He was promoted to Detective for 7 years and then Detective Sergeant for 20 years.

For someone who has worked at horrific crime scenes while in the Forensic Identification Bureau, Geoff has managed to keep a candid sense of humour and to retain a positive outlook. His analytical ability to examine details at a crime scene assists with answering each "Who Dunnit" mystery. As an ex-Certified Latent Print Examiner and ex-Certified Crime Scene Investigator, Geoff's testimony has been accepted in Provincial and High Courts in Canada as an expert witness in photography, fingerprints and physical evidence. While Geoff has received many awards throughout his career, one of the highlights came in 1983 when he was the recipient of a "Commissioners of Police Commendation" for finding fingerprints on a homicide victim which were identified and used in court; this was the first recorded case of an identified print on human flesh in Canada. A second highpoint was being part of the team investigating the Mississauga Train derailment and subsequent Royal Inquiry.

Since retiring in 2002, he has continued to teach Sheridan College's Post Secondary Police Foundations students and to coordinate the Police Studies Certificate Courses offered through Sheridan's School of Continuing Education. Geoff has presented to Senior Investigators at the Ontario Police College on Major Case Management and at the Lester B. Pearson Toronto Airport on Disaster and Emergency Planning. He currently teaches Critical Incident Stress and Trauma to various groups of "Peer Support" workers. Geoff is an active volunteer with the Mississauga Chapter of the Multiple Sclerosis Society, and a two time recipient of their "Person of the Year" award. What's next for this lovable husband, father, new grandfather and retired cop? That mystery will play out in the years ahead.

What the Students Say:
"I would never miss Mr. Hancock's 8 am classes because they would always cheer me up. His kind heart and witty attitude and humour made learning from him extremely enjoyable. However, with all the humour we got our work done and had a good time doing it."

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Nycole Harding

2010 | School of Public Safety and Police Studies - Seneca College | I have been with Seneca College as the program coordinator for the 911 and Emergency Services Communications Program since September 2005. I have a personal attachment to this program in that I was involved from the development and creation stage on up and I have vested many hours into the success of the graduates in this amazing field of work.

With a background in paramedicine and 17 years of experience in the emergency communication field as an ambulance telecommunicator and provincial training officer for the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care, I have a vast knowledge and experience to pass on to my students.

Teaching for me is a passion, not a job. With my B. Ed in Adult Education nearing completion, I enjoy being in the classroom and look forward to the ongoing challenge of educating and passing on my knowledge to the students. I hold fast to the following quote from an unknown author when I prepare my lectures: "There are three things to remember when teaching: know your stuff; know whom you are stuffing; and then stuff them elegantly."

What the Students Say:
"Professor Nycole Harding is the most upbeat, positive teacher I have ever known. She truly has an awesome effect on the students she is teaching... She teaches with passion and conviction. As a result , that is rubbing off on those of us in her class."

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Clare Hasenkampf

2010 | Department of Biological Sciences - University of Toronto Scarborough | Dr. Clare Hasenkampf received a B.Sc. degree with honors in Biology from Loyola University in her hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana. She loved sitting on the levees and watching the Mississippi River traffic roll by. She has visited her family there since hurricane Katrina and 'knows what it means to miss New Orleans'. Her undergraduate research project ignited her interest in genetics. She loves the combination of math and biology found in genetics. She pursued her interest in Genetics as she completed her M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Genetics at Florida State University, in Tallahassee Florida.

In 1989, 'weary of all the sunny, warm weather' she immigrated to Canada with her husband. They have loved living in Toronto and working at the University of Toronto, Scarborough. Dr Hasenkampf continues her research in chromosome structure and functions via funding from the Natural Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada.

Dr. Hasenkampf also is interested in student engagement in their education as scientists. She helped create Foundation Skills for Scientists FS2 (a program for first year science students) and is involved in U of T Scarborough's Science Engagement program that provides undergraduates with research opportunities and a chance to use their training to help their communities.

What the Students Say:
"Prof Hasenkampf is extremely enthusiastic and energetic. She is very helpful. Her lectures are very organized and enjoyable because of the thorough explanations and examples that she comes up with. Her notes are detailed and helpful for exams."

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Monika Havelka - Finalist

2010 | Department of Biology - University of Toronto Mississauga | I completed my BSc at McMaster University, and spent two years at UBC as a research technician and a year in Kenya as a volunteer teacher before returning to graduate school. I completed my MSc and PhD in Zoology at the University of Western Ontario studying the evolution of life history patterns in small mammals, and have been a faculty member in the Department of Biology at UTM since 2003.

I have taught courses in evolutionary biology, comparative physiology, biostatistics, ecology, organismal diversity, landscape ecology, mammalian biology and environmental science. I have also been involved in teaching field courses and supervising student research projects. My current student projects focus on the spatial ecology of small mammals in urban and fragmented landscapes.

I am a big advocate of experiential learning -- my favourite place to conduct a lecture is on the tundra in Churchill MB or in a deciduous forest on the Oak Ridges Moraine. I am lucky to have a great husband and kids who share my passion for the natural world. When not in the field or in the classroom, I can usually be found on the back of my horse.

What the Students Say:
"Her lectures are always fun and engaging no matter what the topic is... It is just so easy to listen and learn when she teaches a class. I wish all professors were like her because university work would be a blast."

"I enjoy her variety of styles in teaching as well as her sense of humour which keeps the lectures entertaining and informative. When I saw this competition her name popped into my head immediately."

"Her awe-inspiring lectures have allowed students to attain a strong grasp of materials... Dr. Monika Havelka's single greatest strength is her ability to connect with the needs and wants of students."

"Professor Havelka has true passion for biology."

video button Professor Monika Havelka's lecture submission.

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Kim Hellemans

2010 | Department of Psychology - Carleton University | My first experience with teaching was as a teaching assistant (TA) for a 2nd year course called "Introduction to Brain and Behaviour" at Queen's University. Fresh from finishing my Undergraduate degree in Psychology at McGill University (1998), I was barely older than the students themselves, and I was terrified. My state of mind at the time can best be summarized by the anonymous quote "the secret to teaching is to appear to have known all your life what you just learned this morning."

Thankfully, I survived the term, and in fact, this experience marked the beginning of a love affair with teaching. In the last semester of my doctoral studies, I managed to convince the department that I was qualified to teach the very same course I first TA'd for (or was it the other way around?). Despite a few moments where I questioned my sanity (I was, after all, simultaneously writing up my dissertation), I came out of the experience knowing that whatever I did with my degree, teaching would definitely be a big part of it.

Doctorate in hand, I then jumped the pond to Cambridge University, where I completed a two-year post-doctoral fellowship in the Department of Experimental Psychology (2004-2006). Feeling not quite poor enough, I then decided to take on another post-doctoral position at the University of British Columbia (2006-2008), where I also taught a 2nd year Brain and Behaviour course. In the summer of 2008 I was hired on as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology at Carleton University, and currently teach Introductory Psychology, Addiction, The Psychology of Motivation and Emotion, and Sensory Processes. When not in the classroom, I can be found sitting at my desk, pondering questions related to the biological basis of mental illness.

What the Students Say:
"Dr. Kim Hellemans epitomizes what I've come to realize is most valuable among educators. She exhibits stellar commitment to her profession and intrinsically focuses her passion for teaching on her students. She is engaging, and her desire to facilitate learning is unsurpassed by any educator I've encountered... She is sincere, hard working, and truly exceptional."

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Darrell Herauf

2010 | Sprott School of Business - Carleton University | Darrell Herauf, CA, CGA is an instructor in accounting at Carleton University's Sprott School of Business where he has received numerous teaching awards. He has also taught at five other universities in Canada including Queen's University and University of Waterloo. He is the co-author of the market leading advanced financial accounting textbook in Canada and author of other teaching supplements.

Darrell consults extensively in the education field primarily for the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario and the Certified General Accountants of Canada. His consulting involves teaching and developing cases, examinations and other program material. Darrell worked in public practice and government organizations for a number of years and continues to provide financial and tax planning advice to small businesses in the Ottawa area.

Born and raised on a farm in Saskatchewan, Darrell now resides in Ottawa. He enjoys cycling along, and skating on, the world famous Rideau Canal. At age 50, Darrell started playing organized hockey and was the weakest player on his team in his first year. Through hard work and passion, he is now an above average hockey player and aspires to represent Canada at an international hockey tournament before he retires from the game.

What the Students Say:
"Clear, concise, interesting. His lectures inspire students to achieve more than an understanding of the material. He represents the accounting profession with pride, offering so much more than most."

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John Higney

2010 | School for Studies in Art and Culture - Carleton University | John Higney holds a B. Music from Acadia University and an M.A. Musicology from The University of Western Ontario. He completed his Ph.D. Music dissertation on Henry Purcell reception at UWO in 2008. This research embraced a variety of approaches including publication history, a reappraisal of poems commemorating Purcell's death in the context of neo-classical critical theory, eighteenth-century print reception, Purcell reception and eighteenth-century aesthetic changes (the decline of mimesis), and the canon formation process.

In addition to seventeenth- and eighteenth-century English music, his research interests also include Renaissance performance practice (musica ficta), baroque musical aesthetics and culture, and popular music and culture. Dr. Higney has lectured in a variety of areas at The University of Western Ontario and Carleton University including renaissance music, classical music history, popular music history and criticism, music theory, and music industries. His research has been presented in England, the United States, and Canada.

What the Students Say:
"Prof Higney does an excellent job at providing informative and engaging lectures. He allows for plenty of discussion but also requires that comments be valid and reinforced. He is very approachable and willing to help."

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Stephen Hill

2010 | Department of Environmental and Resource Studies - Trent University |

What the Students Say:
"He explains the topics with such dedication that so much of the lecture remains stuck in my head. Also, his slides are all up to date and filled with tons of hyperlinks to use as examples. In my opinion he deserves to win cause I have never seen a prof so dedicated to his field of study with a desire to teach his students as much as possible."

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Wayne Horn

2010 | School of Mathematics and Statistics - Carleton University |

What the Students Say:
"BEST PROF IN THE WORLD!! Explains everything so perfectly, from point to point. In Wayne's class, failure does not feel like failure, it only gives us the desire to learn more and correct our mistakes, because Wayne never made it look like failure."

"If he can keep me interested in Statistics , he deserves all the awards in the world."

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Jon G. Houseman

2010 | Faculty of Science - University of Ottawa | Jon joined the University of Ottawa as a Biology Professor in 1985 and since that time has exemplified his commitment to teaching through his vision, actions and belief in the use of technology as a transformative tool for his courses in Zoology and teaching in general. The exceptional quality of his teaching has been constantly recognized by his students and peers.

Early on, Jon recognized the value and potential of computers and provided his students with the innovative digital material to explore biology. The BIODIDAC image bank that he created with his colleague Dr. Antoine Morin is a large learning object repository (before the concept existed) for Jon's digital images and teaching materials. BIODIDAC led to a larger community of biology teachers from 134 countries around the world who share their teaching material for the benefit of students. For Jon's students the result was Digital Zoology, an online digital atlas and zoology textbook that is now published by McGraw-Hill Higher Education.

The "digital" transformation of his teaching led him to the position of Acting Director for the Center for University Teaching, as well as Assistant Director for Computing and Communication Services where he was responsible for the Teaching Technologies Center from 1994-1999. Jon was already teaching with computer based presentation when he chaired a campus wide survey on instructional technology requirements of our faculty in 1995. He and his taskforce were directly responsible for the introduction of internet connections in all classrooms. Jon's interests extend beyond the use of technology. He has demonstrated educational leadership in contributions to his department, faculty and at the level of the whole institution. By being chair of the Biology Department Curriculum Committee for more than 10 years, he has helped to restructure the programmes, focusing on the needs of students.

A copy of a photograph is available on my 3M nomination site http://salinella.bio.uottawa.ca/Houseman/3m/default.php?8_Toc.htm

What the Students Say:
"By far the best lecturer simply because he stimulates your attention for the entire lecture session. You leave with the least amount of confusion and all the more confidence with the course material... He turns a very difficult course into one that is enjoyable and easy to follow."

"Very engaging... PowerPoints contain information that is different from what he is saying so he does not just read them. Knows his material and does not look at the slide."

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Thomas O. Hueglin

2010 | Faculty of Arts, Political Science - Wilfrid Laurier University | Thomas O. Hueglin is a professor of political science at Wilfrid Laurier University where he has just been appointed as University Research Professor for the 2009-10 academic year.

Dr. Hueglin received his degrees in Switzerland and Germany. He has been in Canada since 1983. His research focuses on political theory and comparative federalism. His latest book publication is Classical Debates for the 21st Century: Rethinking Political Thought. Dr. Hueglin regularly teaches a large second year course on the History of Political Thought required for all political science majors. This year he also teaches a third year seminar on Canadian Political Philosophy and a graduate (masters) seminar on Radical Political Thought in the 1960s.

What the students say:
"Dr. Hueglin is extremely knowledgeable in everything he lectures on and is able to provide interesting presentations of all the course content... He speaks to the students as equals and always makes himself available to help students after class time. He ensures that he uses various types of learning tools so that all students have a greater chance for success. He adds humour and interest to his lectures and taking his courses last year was a total delight."

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Craig Hyatt

2010 | Faculty of Applied Health Sciences - Brock University | Craig Hyatt The 2009-10 academic year is my seventh in the Sport Management Department at Brock University. Prior to starting at Brock, I lectured at the University of Massachusetts while completing my Ph.D. in Sport Management. Before returning to school to pursue a doctorate, I worked in the front office of two minor league baseball teams- the Pittsfield Mets (Class "A" New York-Penn League affiliate of the New York Mets) and the South Bend Silver Hawks (Class "A" Midwest League affiliate of the Arizona Diamondbacks).

Like most professors at Ontario universities, I split the majority of my time between teaching and research. My research focuses on sport fans, particularly those having experiences that fall outside of the standard frameworks put forward by other sport management researchers who have attempted to classify fans. I have studied fans who have switched allegiances from one team to another, fans who have been left behind after their favourite team relocated to a new city, and fans who have rejected their home-town team to instead cheer for a team based in a far-away city. I have found that many of my students are eager to hear of the lessons I have learned from both my research on sport fans as well as my time working in professional baseball. As such, the lectures in the four courses I regularly teach (Introduction to Sport Management, Research Design and Evaluation, Sport and the Consumer, and Sport Sales and Promotion), are often flavoured with stories of my experiences in the field.

What the Students Say:
"Best lecturer I've ever had. Makes everything interesting using his stories which relate to the lesson. Laugh out loud laughter constantly throughout the lecture while learning the material first hand."

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Maria Iannuzziello

2010 | School of Justice and Emergency Services - Durham College | Maria Iannuzziello became the first female cadet of the Durham Regional Police Service when she was just 18 years of age; after graduating from Senator O'Connor High school. She worked persistently on her Bachelor of Science in Psychology part-time at the University of Toronto while working as a Police officer with Durham police. She is currently finishing her M.A. through Central Michigan University.

Maria had an exciting and engaging career as a police officer while working on the streets of Ajax, Pickering, Whitby and Oshawa. She spent time working in the Criminal Investigation Bureau, Sexual Assault unit, Victim Services unit, as well as testifying at the Gillian Hadley inquest. The last two years as a police officer she was on a secondment (loan) to Durham College teaching in the Police Foundations diploma program. She loved this experience so much that she competed for a full time position. She was successful and resigned from the police service with 18 years service.

Maria currently teaches in the Police Foundations program, Law and Security program, and the Youth Corrections and Intervention post-diploma program. She has a passion for psychology and other law enforcement-related courses she teaches!

What the Students Say:
"She has the ability to to draw out the love of learning and insightful dialogue from all the students she lectures... There has never been a class that I have enjoyed more than this professor's psychology class. The search is over; the "Best Lecturer" is a beautiful, humble teacher who works at Durham College."

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Gabriela Ilie

2010 | Department of Psychology - University of Toronto Scarborough | Gabriela Ilie has a Ph.D. in cognitive psychology and she is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology at University of Toronto in Scarborough. Her research examines the role of music and speech in the communication of emotions and how they affect our perception and experiences of the world. Gabriela Ilie has co-authored numerous scientific articles on emotion and cognition that have been published in international scientific journals such as Psychological Science, Emotion, Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, and Music Perception. She has presented her research results to several international conferences throughout the world and attracted international media interest including a CNN coverage when her graduate thesis was published debunking the "Mozart Effect". Instead of the "Mozart Effect", her research shows that when we passively listen to music, our emotional state can, under some conditions, become optimal for performance on some cognitive tasks.

Since the summer of 2005, Gabriela Ilie has taught over 40 courses at University of Toronto, University of Toronto in Scarborough, York University and University of Ontario, Faculty of Criminology, Justice and Policy Studies. Gabriela has taught courses in a variety of psychology areas including Introduction to Psychology, Social Psychology, Cross-Cultural Psychology, Cognition, Memory, Neuroscience, Development, Theoretical Issues in Psychology, Critical Thinking, Research Methods and Statistics for Behavioral Sciences.

The classroom environment allows her to inspire herself and her students, to think creatively, dare to challenge, to question, to push the boundaries of inquiry into realms of human potentiality where exciting research and scientific ideas sprout. She feels she could never renounce teaching, nor research, as they both contribute to her wholeness as a modern professor. Currently she is teaching one of the largest classes at University of Toronto in Scarborough, the Introduction to Psychology class with a total academic year enrollment of 3000 students, of which 2000 are viewing the lectures on-line.

What the Students Say:
"It is delightful to listen to Dr. Ilie deliver a lecture. She offers such enthusiasm that it is impossible not to like the material that she is discussing. I have yet to find another professor that can teach the way Dr. Ilie teaches."

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Syed Serajul Islam

2010 | Department of Political Science - Lakehead University | Dr. SYED SERAJUL ISLAM is Professor and Chair of the Department of Political Science at Lakehead University, Canada. He received his Ph. D. from McGill University and taught at McGill University, Concordia University, International Islamic University Malaysia, the University Dhaka, Islamic Institute of Singapore, and in many other institutions. He has published 8 books and nearly 70 articles in internationally refereed journals. His latest book, The Politics of Islamic Identity in Southeast Asia has drawn worldwide attention. He received both the Contribution to Teaching Award and Contribution to Research Award in 2005 at Lakehead University.

He is a past recipient of Fulbright Research Fellowship -- one of the most prestigious awards in social sciences in the world. He is a member of the editorial board of several journals. Dr. Islam has been consulted in recent years by Canada's Foreign Relations Standing Committee to examine "Canada's Foreign Relations with the Muslim World." He has also been contacted by the Research office of the European Union for his expert opinions and articles on the terrorist issues in Southeast Asia. He received Lakehead University's 2009 Distinguished Instructor Award and 2008 LU SSHRC Distinguished Researcher Award.

What the students say:
"Dr. Islam generates a great deal of excitement and interest during his lectures... I believe he is the best lecturer by far because of his passion for what he teaches and his genuine desire for his students to achieve greatness."

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Karim Ismaili

2010 | Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology - Ryerson University |

What the Students Say:
"I have never been so engaged in course material as I am now! Professor Ismaili thinks that all of his students are intelligent and capable... Karim Ismaili loves to teach, his eyes light up when he is lecturing us. And his enthusiasm is contagious. My lecture with him falls on a day where I have 9 hours of lectures in a row. However I am never tired when he teaches! It's like having an insightful conversation with 50 of your closest friends."

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Katherine James

2010 | School of Computer Studies - Seneca College | Katherine James is a professor at Seneca College in the School of Computer Studies. Although starting her professional career in Architecture, Katherine used her Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD) experience as a platform to transition into the more technical side of the industry. She gained experience with networking, hardware, programming, database and operating systems by working for companies in a technical support and corporate training role.

Before joining Seneca in 1998, Katherine ran her own training and consulting business as a Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE) and Microsoft Certified Trainer (MCT), providing certification training to Microsoft Certified Training Centres and corporations. Once joining Seneca, Katherine was able to use her curriculum development skills to help build the Computer Networking and Technical Support (CNS) and Computer Systems Technology (CTY) programs, helping to make them the programs they are today.

Katherine has taught many subjects at Seneca, from high-end networking, to technical support, to an introduction to operating systems. She actively participates in continuous curriculum development and coordinates the efforts of several professors teaching the same subject to ensure continuity between sections, and mentors new instructors.

What the students say:
"Eloquent speaker, very knowledgeable in the subjects she teaches. She speaks loudly and clearly and has a pleasant voice."

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Steve Joordens - Finalist

2010 | Department of Psychology - University of Toronto Scarborough Steve Joordens is a full professor of Psychology at the University of Toronto at Scarborough. He teaches a 1500 student Introductory Psychology course, and has won a number of awards for his teaching and teaching innovations including a Leadership in Faculty Teaching Award and the 2009 National Technology Innovation Award. In collaboration with his Ph.D. student, Dwayne Pare, he created peerScholar (www.peerScholar.com) an online application that supports the development of critical thinking and clear communication skills. In addition to his research on teaching and technology, he also conducts research on Human Memory and Consciousness, and has written papers and given talks on the Ethics of Animal Research. When not in the classroom or the lab, you might find him playing with his band Delusions of Grandeur at venues in Toronto.

What the students say:
"Professor Joordens is an engaging teacher whose love for what he does shows in the innovative ways he engages students' attention and interest in the subject matter. He is also very accessible, which is an important factor for any student attempting to understand the fundamentals of their field beyond what the the textbooks say."

video button Professor Steve Joordens' lecture submission.

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Chris Joslin

2010 | School of Information Technology - Carleton University |

What the Students Say:
"Professor Joslin's classes are made known to the Bachelor of Information Technology students as the toughest classes of the entire degree. He pushes us all to the breaking point just to make sure we learn something, and that we understand it through and through. His lectures are jam packed with information but he always manages to use practical, simple examples to convey that information such that we are 'all on the same page'... Yes, his classes are tough, but in the end we are truly grateful. It is the techniques and work ethic that he inculcates in us that makes us the sought after employees, that we are, when in the workplace."

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Rebecca Jubis

2010 | Department of Psychology - York University | Rebecca Jubis was raised in a French Acadian fishing village in Nova Scotia. After completing her BSc in psychology at Dalhousie University, she moved to Ontario to pursue graduate studies. She obtained her Ph.D. in the area of experimental psychology from York University in 1987. She has taught psychology at Ryerson University and worked as a researcher at Defence R&D Canada.

Upon the birth of her first child, Rebecca realized that she wanted to spend as much time with her children as possible, and opted to teach on a part-time basis rather than pursue a full-time career. For 22 years, she has been very happily engaged as a contract faculty member in the Department of Psychology at York University and has taught courses primarily in introductory psychology, research methods, and learning.

Dr. Jubis states, "As a teacher, I realize that I am still a student; I too, am still learning. I am always trying to learn better ways of inspiring my students and helping them discover the joys of learning and the satisfaction of mastery. Teaching is not just a job - it is one of life's pleasures."

What the students say:
"She is engaging, enthusiastic, relaxed, genuine, extremely intelligent, adds personal anecdotes to lectures, funny. She is helpful, and concerned about her students. She is a top-notch prof."

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Louise Jupp

2010 | School of Early Childhood Education - Seneca College |

What the Students Say:
"She always puts her students first and makes sure that we all excel at the best of our abilities... She always has a smile on her face and never stresses out and looks at the positive which inspires me to feel the same."

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Eric Kam

2010 | Department of Economics - Ryerson University |

What the students say:
"He's the bestttttt and makes so many funny jokes. Keeps the class awake and full of life."

"In a department full of good professors, he really stands out as a superb lecturer. He manages to make the subject of Economics seem both funny and fascinating."

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Henry Katz

2010 | School of Business - Sheridan College Trafalgar Campus | When Sheridan Business Finance Professor, Henry Katz, walked into a Sheridan classroom 23 years ago, he could not have known what a marvellous career lay ahead. He would become one of Sheridan's most popular teachers and would work with some of the best-known people in the personal financial planning industry.

Katz is rated by students as a top professor. In student surveys he scores almost perfect in knowledge about course content, preparation and communication of course material. Loved by his students for his adaptive teaching style, his sense of humour and his unparalleled knowledge of the financial planning profession, Katz is able to put a smile on the faces of his students while teaching some very difficult financial concepts at an intense pace. Beginning each class with a humorous story to break the ice, Katz engages his students and makes finance concepts relevant by sharing real world experiences gained in more than 35 years of accounting and finance. Katz's focus on student interaction in each class keeps students coming back.

As Professor and Program Coordinator of Sheridan's Financial Planning Ontario Graduate Certificate Program, Katz was nominated by Sheridan for the 2007-2008 ACCC Award for Teaching Excellence. He is a recipient of the 2008 International NISOD Excellence Award in Teaching and Leadership presented to the University of Texas at Austin. Katz is co-author of the finance text, Introduction to Finance - A Workbook Approach used by Sheridan Business foundation year students. He is also author of Financial Planning Awareness - A Workbook Approach used by third-year Sheridan Finance and Accounting students. His professional designations include: Associate Chartered Secretary and Administrator (ACIS); Certified Management Accountant CMA (Aust); Certified Financial Planner (CFP); and Registered Financial Planner (RFP).

Katz's greatest strength is his dedication to his students.

What the students say:
"He was very approachable and easy going. I loved going to Henry's class as he made learning fun and enjoyable... especially at 8am Monday morning. I would attend any class of Henry's in the future."

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Carolyn Kay

2010 | Department of History - Trent University | Carolyn Kay is a history professor at Trent University. She received her Ph.D. from Yale University (under the direction of the eminent historian Peter Gay) and her M.Phil from Oxford University. Kay grew up in Scarborough, Ontario, where she attended the University of Toronto, Scarborough College as an undergraduate; she became fascinated with the study of modern German history after hearing some superb lectures by a talented young professor named Modris Eksteins.

At Trent University Kay teaches courses on Nazi Germany, the Holocaust, the rise of modern Germany, and episodes of terror in western history. She has been the recipient of several teaching awards, including Trent's Symons Award for Excellence in Teaching (2005) and the OCUFA Teaching Award for Outstanding Contribution to University Teaching (2007). Her publications include the book Art and the German Bourgeoisie (University of Toronto Press, 2002). She is currently completing a research project on children in Imperial Germany.

What the students say:
"I don't know any other professor who would get up and start singing old World War II Songs that the soldiers used to sing about Hitler only having one ball. Her voice is engaging her enthusiasm is legandary and her energy is unbeatable. Amazing professor. Amazing Lecturer."

"Not only did she show her interest in the topic, but through her creative teaching techniques and amazing sense of humour she made the students interested in her subject too."

"She brings new insights into her field of study on a constant basis, renewing her commitment to learning, and is continually encouraging towards her students."

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Vincent Kazmierski

2010 | Department of Law - Carleton University | Assistant Professor and Undergraduate Supervisor in the Department of Law at Carleton University. I hold a B.A. (Jt. Hons.) and M.A. from McGill University, LL.B. from Dalhousie Law School and S.J.D. from the University of Toronto, Faculty of Law. Before beginning my doctoral studies in law, I worked as an associate lawyer at a national law firm. I have also worked for a human rights commission and a legal aid clinic. In 1997-1998, I served as a law clerk to Justice Beverley McLachlin of the Supreme Court of Canada.

I draw on this practical experience in various legal settings to help my students understand the fundamentals of the legal system and to critically assess the ways in which different actors function within the legal system as they interpret, apply and ultimately create binding rules that affect our lives and relationships. I try to engage my students with a combination of humour and practical examples that make sometimes difficult concepts more accessible. I am aided immeasurably in this task by my quirky, but loveable family, which provides an unending source of inspiration.

My current research interests include the operation of unwritten constitutional principles in Canadian constitutional law, the role of law in promoting democratic accountability, access to government information laws, privacy as an evolving human right and the role of law in promoting the inclusion (or exclusion) of disabled persons within society.

What the Students Say:
"Professor Kazmierski is an incredible lecturer... It is quite obvious that he enjoys what he does and makes it his first priority that the students enjoy themselves."

"Professor K is always trying to keep his classes engaged. Whether it's coming in a full costume on Halloween, or rapping about final exams, his lectures are always entertaining on top of being well structured and informative."

"Professor Kazmierski is both an intellectual individual and a social butterfly. He's completely the opposite of the typical perception of a university professor with his popular lingo, creative lectures, and hilarious real life examples."

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Geoffrey Kellow

2010 | Department of Humanities - Carleton University |

What the Students Say:
"Studying with Dr. Kellow means thinking through important questions, applying the issues raised by studied texts to our times and my life, being inspired to do what is right and not what is easy, and a good deal of laughter."

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Kathy Kells

2010 | School of English and Liberal Studies - Seneca College | Kathleen (Kathy) Kells is a full time professor in the School of English and Liberal Studies at Seneca College's King Campus, located on the former Eaton Estate near King City, Ontario. At Seneca she has taught a number of course including French, College English, Quebecois Literature and Music. Before coming to Seneca and later, while on sabbatical leave from the college doing graduate studies, Kathy taught French Language and French-Canadian Literature at The University of Western Ontario where she received her PhD. In the course of her doctoral studies at UWO, she took several graduate courses in Medieval French and Renaissance Literature at the University of Toronto. In addition, Kathy is a graduate of the Faculty of Education of the University of Toronto and has taught English in secondary school in France as well as off campus courses at Seneca College as part of Brock University's Bachelor of Adult Education program. She remains a member in good standing of the Ontario College of Teachers.

Kathy has always loved music. Having had the good fortune to be raised by a wonderful mother who encouraged and supported her, Kathy took piano lessons into late adolescence and now, as an adult, continues her musical education at the Royal Conservatory in Toronto. At the RCM she has completed a number of theory and history courses and, most recently, the certificate requirements for Elementary Piano Pedagogy leading towards the Associate of The Royal Conservatory of Music (ARTC) Diploma in Piano Pedagogy.

The joy that music has brought to Kathy's life is very much a part of her teaching at Seneca , where she currently teaches a very popular course, "From Bach to Rock: A Cultural Understanding of Music". Kathy is particularly passionate about this course that she specifically designed to meet the needs and interests of students with little or no musical background. Kathy is committed to student-centered learning and believes fervently that her teaching should truly focus on drawing out of each student his or her full potential and encouraging each one to pursue his or her hopes and dreams for the future. Kathy's passion for life-long learning is what she strives to pass on to her students.

What the Students Say:
"I was someone who usually didn't mind going to an English class, but it was not my favourite at all. She made it my favourite by the second week... I never missed a class of hers, sick or not. She is a very brilliant woman, and I was lucky to have her as my professor."

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Terry Kelly

2010 | School of Early Childhood Education - Seneca College | Terry is the eldest of eight children, so going into Early Childhood Education was a natural path. Terry earned her ECE diploma from Seneca College in 1982 and is happy to be teaching as an alumna.

Since 1982, Terry has worked in the field of Early Childhood Education in many capacities; from front line with all age groups, to supervising, to becoming an early literacy consultant with Ontario Early Years. She has been teaching part time at Seneca College for seven years. Terry continues her own education with lots of professional development: attending a bridging program with York University to pursue Women's Studies and specializing in early language and literacy through Toronto's Hanen Centre. She also studies French, and is currently in a Yoga Teacher Training program. She is hoping to combine yoga theory and practice with young children and learning.

Terry is also very active in providing workshops, and seminars in the ECE/parenting/care giving community of the GTA. She uses the principles of excellent adult education in her work with adults, while making sure to have regular contact with young children to keep her grounded in her theory and practice.

What the Students Say:
"Terry is very knowledgeable, resourceful, dedicated, helpful, understanding and a supportive teacher... She is a teacher for people who are really there to learn and someone who can make you love learning... Her classes are very interactive and informative."

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Scott Kelly

2010 | Department of Biology - York University | I grew up on the West coast of Scotland and from a very early age had a fascination with animals. After finishing secondary school I obtained my B.Sc. (Hons) in Biology from the University of Hull in Northern England where I was a solidly average student in most subjects except for those that were Zoology related. In this field any and all information went in and never came back out. After finishing my B.Sc. I traveled to Asia and embarked upon graduate studies in the area of Comparative Animal Physiology. I obtained a Masters degree and Ph.D. from The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), studying under the supervision of Prof. Norman Y.S. Woo and graduated in 1998.

I taught at CUHK for one year prior to coming to Canada to commence post-doctoral research. Why Canada? The answer is simple. The best Animal Physiologists in the world are in Canadian universities and I wanted to work with the best. I spent a few years as a post-doctoral fellow conducting research (and teaching when I could) at McMaster University in Hamilton. At McMaster I worked with Prof. Chris Wood, Canadian Research Chair in Environment and Health and then I spent a short post-doctoral period at the University of Alberta under the mentorship of the late Prof. Richard E. Peter. From there I obtained a tenure-track position in the Department of Biology, York University where I have been since 2004.

I understood the importance of teaching from an early stage. Only teachers, lecturers and mentors that are passionate about what they communicate stimulate the same passion in us. But I think it was my time spent as a Teaching Assistant in Hong Kong that was possibly the most formative. Here I had the added obstacle of teaching students who didn't use English as the primary mode of communication, although most students were proficient in English, used textbooks written in English as well as English scientific terminology. That said, over the years I have been fortunate enough to work under and beside a great many individuals and the enthusiasm exhibited by all has influenced my teaching philosophy (and at York University this theme continues). The formula is simple; passion, clarity and a good sense of humour. The privilege of teaching should never be taken for granted.

What the students say:
"Professor Kelly is very enthusiastic when lecturing. He makes the class interesting by making references to pop culture in his explanations of material. He shows great interest in the material he is teaching which makes the students want to listen. He is one of the only professors who will come out to every single laboratory session to make sure the students are not having difficulties."

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Thembela Kepe

2010 | Department of Geography - University of Toronto Scarborough | Thembela Kepe grew up in South Africa, and was educated in South Africa and Canada. He is with the Department of Social Sciences, University of Toronto Scarborough. He teaches undergraduate courses in geography and in international development studies (IDS). He also teaches a graduate seminar on African political ecology.

His research and writing focuses on people-environment interactions, land rights, politics of development projects, and rural livelihoods and poverty. Most of his research is conducted in the continent of Africa. Over the last three years he has worked with research students, as well as collaborated with colleagues, doing research in South Africa, Zambia, Mozambique, Uganda, Tanzania, Botswana, Ghana, Norway, France and Peru. His work has been published in numerous international journals; and a book he co-edited "Land, Memory, Reconstruction, and Justice: Perspectives on Land Claims in South Africa" is being published by Ohio University Press (May 2010).

What the Students Say:
"This professor teaches geography and I have not missed a single lesson of his because he is that interesting. He's hilarious too, not to mention approachable and reasonable with deadlines and examinations and he knows his stuff."

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Rick Kerr

2010 | School of Communication, Language & General Studies - Durham College |

What the students say:
"Rick made the courses interesting by making the students think... Although he has no police background, he has gone out of his way off the job to do extra training and take extra seminars to further deepen his understanding of policing... Rick is widely liked and respected by all and deserves this nomination."

"This man has an aura about him that brings the classroom to life, with his combination of lectures, class discussions and extremely heated debates, I always leave the classroom all reved up, not wanting the class to be over."

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Tony Kerr.

2010 | Faculty of Design - Ontario College of Art & Design |

What the Students Say:
"Who can be a better lecturer than someone who has so many years in the ADVERTISING field? and the Chair of the advertising faculty."

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Michael Khan

2010 | Rotman School of Management- University of Toronto Mississauga | Michael Khan has taught at University of Toronto since 2001. He currently leads one of the largest courses at UofT Mississauga -- Introduction to Management Functions. He also teaches Management in a Changing Environment as well as Information Technology Auditing, where he introduces several innovative pedagogies to enhance the student experience including the use of real world examples. He makes use of extensive class discussions in his courses as a key learning tool including for the 500 entrants to first year Business programs. Previously Professor Khan has taught Intermediate Financial Accounting and Advanced Financial Accounting courses at the Joseph L. Rotman School of Management, University of Toronto (St. George).

Off campus, Khan is a Seminar leader at the annual School of Accountancy for the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Ontario where he prepares students for professional examinations. Previously, Khan has held positions in Consultancy (both independently and through a leading Professional Services firm). He has also held a position in Senior Management at one of Canada's leading communications corporations.

Khan obtained his Bachelors of Commerce from University of Toronto, specializing in Management and Economic Theory. He received his Chartered Accountant designation, and is "Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT" as well as a "Certified Information Systems Auditor". Later, he completed his MBA from Schulich School of Business, York University.

What the Students Say:
"Professor Michael Khan's teaching philosophy is simple yet unique. He believes in teaching concepts through discussion which stimulates students to apply the concepts in a real world setting. He draws upon his vast and diverse business experience, incorporating it into his vivid and interactive multimedia presentations."

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Peter Kiatipis

2010 | Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology - Ryerson University |

What the Students Say:
"The professor discusses course material in real life context and also uses humour when applicable to maintain a fun learning environment."

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Russell Kilbourn

2010 | Department of English and Film Studies - Wilfrid Laurier University | Russell Kilbourn is an Assistant Professor in Wilfrid Laurier University's Department of English and Film Studies, where he has been teaching since 2005. Teaching everything from 1st-year courses to 4th-year seminars and graduate courses, Kilbourn's favourite experience at Laurier has been teaching one of the huge (300 student) Introductory course FS 102: Film and the Image.

In the area of research, Kilbourn specializes in film theory and cinema-literature relations; his current obsession is with the representation of memory in the contemporary art film, which is the focus of a forthcoming book with Routledge, titled Cinema, Memory, Modernity, as well as a forthcoming contribution to a collection on Memory in Millennial Cinema with Wallflower Press. Kilbourn's publications to date include journal articles and book chapters in the areas of film, cultural studies, and comparative literature, as well as contributions to four book collections on German author W.G. Sebald. An article from 2000, "Re-writing Reality: Reading The Matrix", has been reprinted in a Cultural Studies anthology from Blackwell Press (April 2008). Kilbourn is also a series editor for the Film and Media Studies series at WLU Press.

In his free time (such as it is) he enjoys x-country skiing, running, traveling to Italy, and spending time with his wife and daughter.

What the Students Say:
"Dr. Kilbourn's insightful lectures in the area of film studies engage students to view film as a worthwhile area of study... Dr Kilbourn's range of lectures on topics such as self-reflexivity in film, intertextuallity, and the role of masculinity in narratives teach us that film is a mirror in which not only human experience can be viewed but also a mirror where pop-culture can be examined. Ive decided to switch majors to film to further wrestle with the ideas Dr. Kilbourn presents regularly in his lectures."

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Dawn Kilkenny

2010 | Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering - University of Toronto St. George | Dr. Kilkenny joined the Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering (IBBME - University of Toronto) as an Assistant Professor (CLTA) in July 2008. She holds a PhD in Physiology from the University of Western Ontario, and completed a four-year post-doctoral fellowship in Microbiology and Immunology at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN.

Prior to joining the IBBME, Dr. Kilkenny was a Senior Research Specialist at the Cell Imaging Shared Resource at Vanderbilt University. In her four years at the facility, she taught over 500 graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, research investigators and MDs to independently use widefield and confocal microscopes for their research studies. She currently teaches graduate engineering students the basics of human physiology, and is the academic advisor to the IBBME Undergraduate Teaching Laboratory.

Dr. Kilkenny maintains active research in the area of cellular physiology. She focuses on cellular signaling and the family of fibroblast growth factor receptor proteins, in particular during diabetes. When not teaching or working in the research lab, Dr. Kilkenny is active at home with her husband and 4 young children.

What the Students Say:
"Many IBBME students with background in physical sciences, struggle to learn the basics of biology required to succeed. Sharing the pains, Dr. Kilkenny develops and delivers a human physiology curriculum tailored specifically for engineers and physical scientists. Result? Happier students armed with the necessary knowledge and confidence to take on the research world!"

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Paul Kingston

2010 | Department of Social Services - University of Toronto Scarborough | I am an associate professor of political science, specializing in comparative politics of the developing world and, in particular, the modern Middle East. My first area of research focused on the politics of development planning and state formation in the region and my publications from that research include Britain and the Politics of Modernization in the Middle East, 1945-58, Cambridge University Press, 1996 as well as numerous articles.

I have subsequently been conducting research on issues of state formation and state collapse in deeply divided societies, focusing in particular on Lebanon. My publications include (eds) P. Kingston and I. Spears, States within States: Incipient Political Entities in the Post Cold War Era, Palgrave MacMillan, 2004 and I am presently completing a manuscript on post civil war Lebanon to be (tentatively) called Opportunities for Advocacy? NGOs and Associational Networks in Post Civil War Lebanon. Prior to coming to the University of Toronto Scarborough, I worked as a program officer for the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in Syria.

What the Students Say:
"Professor Kingston's passion for political science is truly outstanding. Not only does Dr. Kingston keep his students engaged but he inspires them to take action in the political sphere through scholarly work or as an activist... Dr. Kingston makes his courses engaging, interesting and he keeps his students hungry for more learning."

"Prof Kingston is an amazing lecturer. I had him in my first year of university and his lectures inspired me to a point where I switched majors... He always explains two sides of every story and explains concepts and information so well that it stays with students over time. I took his course in my first year, and now finally got an opportunity to take another and I am just as happy with his lectures as I was three years ago."

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Ken Kirkwood

2010 | School of Health Studies - University of Western Ontario |

What the Students Say:
"Prof. Kirkwood taught me critical thinking and ethics (2 different courses) last year. I thought critical thinking would be brutal, but Kirkwood made it relevant and interesting. He's really enthusiastic and puts a lot of himself into lectures."

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Panagiota Klentrou

2010 | Department of Physical Education and Kinesiology - Brock University | Dr. Panagiota (Nota) Klentrou is a professor in the Department of Physical Education and Kinesiology at Brock University and the current Chair of the department. Dr. Klentrou holds a BSc in Physical Education and Sports Science from University of Athens, Greece, and an MSc and PhD in Kinesiology from Université de Montréal. She has been teaching human physiology and exercise physiology at Brock University for the past 14 years at all levels from first year through to graduate courses.

Dr. Klentrou's research focuses on the effects of exercise and training on health and performance and her publications cover a range of topics in pediatric exercise physiology, exercise interventions, cardiovascular health, muscoloskeletal growth and Osteoporosis prevention, temperature regulation, and exercise immunology. With funding support by SSHRC, CIHR, and the Heart and Stroke Foundation she is a leader in interdisciplinary research investigating health risk behaviours, related physiological outcomes and intervention strategies throughout the lifespan.

Dr. Klentrou has served on the advisory committee of the Healthy Start for Life, a project funded by Health Canada, and she is involved with Osteoporosis Canada and other international Education, Health and Sports programs. A retired international rhythmic gymnast herself, she has a particular interest on the health of young athletes that has led to her involvement with the International Federation of Gymnastics and the 2004 Summer Olympic Games in Athens.

What the Students Say:
"Professor Klentrou makes each lecture fun, exciting, and upbeat. She teaches in a way that goes beyond what any first year student would expect - she wants to see the class involved with their learning. For a small professor, she has so much energy... She is an expert in her area of study and it is her lectures that I look forward to twice a week."

"Dr. Klentrou's passion for her work really comes out when she lectures. Her excitement seeps into the students, keeps us engaged, and makes us want to learn more. It is not only her passion but also her lecture style that makes her an excellent professor."

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Chris Koenig-Woodyard

2010 | Department of English and Drama - University of Toronto Mississauga |
I work in the English Department at the University of Toronto at Mississauga, where I teach a wide range of courses (from Jane Austen, to Romantic Poetry, to the Victorian Novel, to Vampire and Gothic literature, to Science Fiction).

Trained at Oxford as a Romanticist, my primary research interests are Gothic literature and Transatlantic literature (American, British, and Canadian literature). A former Doctoral Fellow (Oxford) and Post-Doctoral Fellow (University of Toronto) of the Social Sciences and Humanities Council of Canada, I have taught at Trent University, the University of Western Ontario, the University of Guelph, Morgan State University (Baltimore, Maryland), and Wilfrid Laurier University. I am the editor/co-editor of Ann Radcliffe, The Italian (1797): A Critical Edition (forthcoming broadview press), and co-editor of Transatlantic Romanticism: An Anthology of American, British, and Canadian Literature, 1767-1867 (Longman) and "Sullen Fires across the Atlantic": Essays in British and American Romanticism (Romantic Circles).

In 2006, I was a recipient of an Undergraduate Teaching Award, Students' Administrative Council-Association of Part-Time Undergraduate Studies, University of Toronto.

What the students say:
"There is no prof better at getting the point across and being able to keep students involved and paying attention."

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Michelle Kramer

2010 | Faculty of Arts, English - Wilfrid Laurier University | I was a late-comer to university education and was a single mother of two nearing my thirties by the time I completed probationary courses and began full-time pursuit of my undergraduate degree. Wilfrid Laurier University was home to me then - as I completed both my B.A and M.A - and continues to be home to me now, as a long-term contract professor in the Department of English and Film Studies.

Originally, I had no ambitions beyond proving to myself that I was capable of university-level studies. With the help of some of the best teaching professors I have ever known, however, I found something inside of me that told me I had found the place where I belonged - inside of a university classroom. McMaster University's English Department tried its damnedest to push me to the completion of my PhD but - and this is no reflection on the wonderful people I worked with there - I have remained stubbornly (stupidly?) A.B.D. these past thirteen years, throughout which I have been teaching the equivalent of a full-time load at W.L.U. My empty wallet may have started me teaching while I was still pursuing my doctoral studies, but my passion for teaching has kept me there.

I am not always certain why my students seem to like me - why, for instance, I merited this nomination - but I think it may be because they know that I understand imperfection and struggle. I understand that things don't always come easily to people. I know the importance of second-chances and the necessity of having someone believe that you can be the person you secretly dream yourself to be. I know that there is a life of hardship beyond our rarefied university walls and that, if what you're doing inside of the classroom doesn't connect with that life, you may as well be screaming into a canyon. Perhaps that's why they like and respect me. Perhaps.

I know why I like them, though. Every day, they ignite me with their questions, fuel me with their youth and hope, challenge me with their problems and push me to learn more and know more than I did the day before.

What the students say:
"This professor is amazing. I learned so much from being in her classes. Being an English major means paying attention to a variety of different aspects of a narrative, which some profs tend to do for you. I found Kramer continuously challenged me. Her way of teaching focused on not giving us a conclusion, but forcing us to challenge ourselves to come to our own conclusions. I find my self constantly applying her teaching to what is around me and I continue to find new challenges when it comes to literature."

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Peter Kuling

2010 | Faculty of Arts, Communications Studies - Wilfrid Laurier University | Peter Kuling is a Sessional Lecturer at Wilfrid Laurier University in the Departments of Communication Studies and English & Film Studies. He is currently preparing for his doctoral defense in English at the University of New Brunswick on the topic of Canadian Theatrical Adaptations of Shakespeare.

With an extensive Film, TV and Media background, Peter has taught courses at Laurier on diverse topics like American Cinema, Gangster Cinema, Film and Mass Culture, Visual Communication and Culture, Print History and Culture, as well as Canadian Drama. Peter also works as a performer and producer for the digital cable station Bite Television. At Bite TV Peter appears weekly as a cast member on Bite's live interactive late night talk show The Surf, which regularly features his own comedy segment Recessionomics with Professor Kuling.

Peter also produces Bite TV's Coming Soon, a movie preview show featuring interviews and behind-the-scenes material from the latest cinematic releases, and he reviews films as part of the Popcorn Panel in The National Post.

What the students say:
"This guy is boss. He lectured in my American Film Since 1969 class, and you can single handedly blame him for my love of 'Blaxploitation' horror films... Akin to a really cool uncle who always has something fascinating to say, this prof gave sometimes poignant, sometimes funny but always interesting lectures that made the time fly by. Shine on you crazy star."

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Joana Kuras

2010 | School of Business Management - Seneca College |

What the Students Say:
"Imagine this: a college class where students aren't just putting in time until they get their diploma but are actually learning something directly relevant to their lives as Canadians--and recognizing this as it happens! It's almost too good to be true. But it is true! It's happening in Professor Kuras' law class. By knowing the material inside-and-out, by respecting her students' time and ability, and genuinely being concerned in their progress as business students, she stands head and shoulders above every other teacher I've had."

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Amit Lahiri

2010 | School of Business - Centennial College | Amit Lahiri, MSc., has been a full-time professor in the International Business Program of the School of Business at Centennial College, Toronto, since 1999. He also helped conceptualize the one-year graduate program in 'International Business Management' which attracts highly qualified internationally trained immigrants and international students. He served as the Coordinator of the program from its inception for five years, during which the program became one of the most popular graduate certificate programs in the School of Business with a structured internship component and a partnership with the Ottawa-based Forum for International Training in Trade (FITT). Prior to joining the Ontario college system, Amit worked in the biotechnology industry, initially with a German multinational as a Product Manager and subsequently with a French multinational as their Marketing and later on as their Country Manager for the Indian and Middle-eastern operations. His business experience spans eight years and six countries and involves many senior level international business projects.

His areas of interest are cross-cultural management and negotiation, international marketing, global business strategy, business and management strategies for sustainability sustainable development and business ethics/corporate social responsibility. Over the last decade as a professor at Centennial College, Amit has contributed to the business curriculum with several original courses like Global Business Strategy, International Development, Business Language, Culture & Customs etc. With his new found passion for sustainable development, he is infusing into his courses 'sustainability' learning outcomes as part of a global need to address the changing paradigm of business education, spurred partly by the overwhelming concerns of climate change and corporate accountability.

Amit has a Masters Degree in the Life Sciences from the University of Bombay (now Mumbai) and he is currently a Masters in Environmental Studies candidate at York University's Faculty of Environmental Studies where he is researching on the link between bio-technology transfer and sustainable development in a developmental context. Additionally, he has participated in the President's Taskforce on Learning culminating in the unique Signature Learning Experience at Centennial College. He aspires to pursue a PhD in the area of innovation and sustainability and intends to consolidate his professional expertise on sustainability issues by launching a consulting practice.

What the Students Say:
"Prof. Amit Lahiri is nominated for the Best Lecturer Competition owing to his exemplary subject knowledge, unmatched presentation delivery and sheer respect commanded by him over the student body at Centennial College's School of Business... He is easily approachable both in and outside the classroom, and is very much forthcoming towards a very exciting & enlightening discussion on different current business topics and events, thus enabling the students to learn and integrate the subject very effectively and efficiently."

"I find his way of teaching not only exceptional but extraordinary. This professor has a wide variety of teaching skills and experience. I find him the most interesting of all."

"Unique style of teaching (No slide shows) and friendly approach to his students."

The professor speaks clearly and uses examples from our real world and life, which makes it easy to understand the International business concepts."

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Jennifer Lapum

2010 | Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing - Ryerson University | Dr. Jennifer Lapum is an Associate Professor in the Daphne Cockwell School of Nursing, Faculty of Community Services at Ryerson University. Her career as a Registered Nurse has spanned 15 years with a clinical background in cardiovascular and intensive care. She completed her PhD and MN at the University of Toronto and her BScN at Ryerson University.

She teaches Assessment of the Healthy Individual and Professional Development: Social, Political and Economic Perspectives of Nursing in the Collaborative Nursing Degree Program. As well, she is a Faculty Advisor for five students in the Master of Nursing program and guest lectures on arts-based methods of research in health care. Her strong clinical background grounds her teaching in the real world, which brings alive her lectures and engages students. Foundations of her teaching philosophy are rooted in "understanding". She draws upon Edgerton Ryerson's idea that the transferring of knowledge to students is futile, unless they are actively and critically engaged. This philosophy is the driving force to her teaching methods that include creative and artistic methods and embedded critical thinking. She prepares for each class thinking: how can I draw students in and foster their passion for learning and nursing?

Her program of research involves developing expertise and capacity in promoting humanistic health care practices and policies in the context of technologically-driven health care systems. As both a poet and scientist, her research involves understanding how to strike a balance between the art and science of nursing. Her research is informed by qualitative methods with expertise in narrative inquiry and arts-informed approaches including poetry and photography. She has interests in experimenting with the arts as an epistemological stance and as a method of reflexivity and knowledge dissemination. One of her current studies involves creating an art exhibit of poetry and photographic images that aesthetically maps patients? stories of cardiac surgery. Her work has been presented internationally and published in Social Science & Medicine, Qualitative Health Research, International Journal of Qualitative Methods, Qualitative Inquiry, CMAJ, CJCN, Forum: Qualitative Social Research, Canadian Journal of Cardiology and European Journal of Cardiovascular Nursing and Allied Professions. As well, she has published a book chapter "The place of nursing in primary health care."

What the Students Say:
"As an educator, she facilitates critical thought in students and allows them to realize and correct mistakes. She shows passion for her profession and does not shy away from incorporating innovative ideas to facilitate good teaching."

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Frances Latchford

2010 | School of Arts & Letters - York University | Frances Latchford is an Associate Professor in the School of Women's Studies at York University. She is the recipient of two teaching awards: the York University Parents' Association University-Wide Teaching Award (SCOTL 2003) and the Atkinson Dean's Award for Excellence in Teaching at York University (2006).

Dr. Latchford's area of specialization is feminist social and political philosophy that utilizes continental, post-structuralist, post-colonial, psychoanalytic, and queer theories of subjectivity. She has published articles that take up questions about drag, queer identity, subjectivity, rights, and ethical knowledge. She is currently completing a book manuscript, Steeped In Blood, that considers how 'family' experiences are produced in the modern Western context. She uses feminist, continental, post-structural, and psychoanalytic thought to examine the devaluation of adoptive 'family' experience by discourses and psychologies that focus on the family, adoption, sexuality and incest. She is also editing an interdisciplinary book of essays entitled Adoption and Mothering.

Her latest research project, Distant Family, looks at the ontological status and experience of trans-racial adoptive ties; it interrogates the operation of "scientific racism" within historical and contemporary discourses about trans-racial adoption.

What the Students Say:
"Professor Latchford is a scholar with an amazing personality. Her lectures are clear, concise and she actually makes it fun to learn the material... She is excellent at explaining even the most difficult theories or concepts. She is such an amazing professor. I recommend her classes to fellow students all of the time."

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Sharon Lauricella

2010 | Faculty of Criminology, Justice and Policy Studies - University of Ontario Institute of Technology | Dr. Sharon Lauricella is the recipient of the UOIT Teaching Award and has been nominated for provincial and national teaching recognition. Sharon instructs courses including Issues in the Family, Professional Writing, Developments in Human Communication and Issues in Social and Political Philosophy.

Sharon holds a doctoral degree from Cambridge University (England). Her undergraduate work was completed in Boston, Massachusetts and Edinburgh, Scotland. Whilst a graduate student in England, Sharon rowed in the Corpus Christi College Women's VIII and has since competed in the World Rowing Championships in Montreal. She has climbed mountaintops all over the world, and has gone sliding down ice hills while holding a pickaxe in Scotland.

Sharon believes that it is important to instill values of compassion and respect in her students at all levels. Whether instructing university-level courses at UOIT or teaching yoga to school children, Sharon is passionate about teaching - while working with students of a wide range of ages and abilities, she is a teacher of students, not simply a teacher of a subject. Her courses are lively, student-centred, and engage students of all learning styles. During class time at UOIT, Sharon's students may be found using technology via their laptops, lying on the gym floor, or taking photos of a variety of symbolic places on campus.

What the Students Say:
"Professor Loverock (Lauricella) is an exceptional lecturer... She's a very nice and kind-hearted woman which is not to say she's an easy marker or anything but that she's understanding... Students never really care whether the professor is disappointed in them or not but with Professor Loverock, it actually pricks the heart when she tells you she's disappointed in you for any reason. Sharon definitely deserves the title of best lecturer. She always will be one to me. She makes learning an enjoyable experience."

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Barbara Lazar

2010 | Division of Humanities - York University | Barbara Lazar has been happily teaching Children's Literature at York University for over twenty-five years. In 1999 she received the Division of Humanities Award for Teaching Excellence (Contract Faculty).

A native Montrealer, Barbara graduated with a B.A. in Honours English (1976) from McGill University and she holds an M.A. from York University (1979). Although she concentrated on 18th century British Literature and 19th century American Literature in graduate school, she took every opportunity to pursue her scholarly interests in Children's Literature.

Teaching continues to be both a delight and a challenge, as every new group refreshes classroom life, changes it and opens it to unanticipated critical directions. Whether in a large, perhaps too large, lecture or a small group tutorial, Barbara's focus has always been to encourage her students to read like "Wild Things" and write like E. B. White.

What the Students Say:
"Professor Lazar is an entertainer! Her lectures and tutorials are humourous, memorable, engaging and full of infectious enthusiasm. She works hard to ensure that her students think critically and improve themselves over the year, and expresses great passion and commitment to post-secondary education and pedagogy."

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Mark Leavens

2010 | School of Legal and Public Administration - Seneca College | Mark Leavens is a Professor with the Real Property Administration, Financial Services Underwriting and Municipal Administration programs at Seneca College in Toronto.

He has a degree in Political Science from the University of Western Ontario, a diploma in Municipal Administration and Real Property Assessment from Fanshawe College and a certificate in Real Property Assessment from the University of British Columbia.

Mark appears regularly as a valuation expert on HGTV's Income Property, and is a featured columnist in Canadian Real Estate Magazine.

What the students say:
"Professor Mark Leavens remembers everyones name, cares for each student and makes an effort to include us in his lectures. He is amicable, knowledgeable and brings life to his classes."

"Mr. Leavens brought a lot of knowledgeable and real life experience to his classrooms, which made it easier to understand the material. Mr. Leavens made my experience with Real Property Administration enjoyable, and informative."

"His sense of humour makes every lesson lively and exciting."

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Dana Lee

2010 | School of Radio and Television Arts - Ryerson University | Dana Lee is currently the Director of the Master of Arts in Media Production program at Ryerson University. Dana received his M.Ed. from York University in 2000, and graduated from the School of Radio and Television Arts in 1977.

With 30 years' experience in television production and university teaching, Dana Lee's numerous involvements have been in research, design and development, both technical and aesthetic. Taking imaginative concepts and transforming them into reality has propelled him into a continuous quest for technical knowledge as a means to an end.

Dana was awarded a Ryerson University Teaching Excellence Award in 2007, and was also a TVO Best Lecturer Top 30 finalist in that same year. Dana now teaches media technical theory, as well as various courses in the graduate program. He has also written a comprehensive technical theory textbook which is currently used by television and teaching facilities worldwide.

What the Students Say:
"A first class instructor with fabulous oral skills. Makes every student listen to what he says by accompanying his lecture with up-to-date examples."

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Marilyn Lee

2010 | School of Occupational and Public Health - Ryerson University | Professor Marilyn Lee received her Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from the University of Massachusetts and a Master of Science degree in Pathobiology from Johns Hopkins University School of Hygiene & Public Health. Her graduate thesis was on the biochemistry of parasites, particularly on the isolation of neurotransmitters in cestode parasites as a potential target for medication. She pursued her interest in public health by attending Ryerson University (then Ryerson Polytechnical Institute) receiving a Certificate in Public Health Inspection in 1980.

The next six years she practiced as a Public Health Inspector for the Wellington-Dufferin-Guelph Health Unit in a general program responsible for outbreak investigation, food safety auditing, inspection of on-site sewage disposal systems, interpreting drinking water sampling results, rabies investigations, and serving on infection control committees. Professor Lee has been teaching at Ryerson since 1986 in the School of Occupational and Public Health where students are enrolled in a Bachelor of Applied Science degree program. Upon graduation students will usually pursue field training in health units and then complete the certification exam offered by the Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors.

In 2008 Professor Lee received the Sue Williams Excellence in Teaching Award presented by the Faculty of Community Services at Ryerson. Student nominators wrote that Professor Lee is known to hundreds of graduates of the School of Occupational and Public Health - "If you know your bacterial, parasitic, and viral pathogens and attended Ryerson University during the last 25 years it is likely because Marilyn Lee helped you learn the intricacies of these bugs in her classes". This year she was presented with the Alex Cross Award from the Canadian Institute of Public Health Inspectors, given to a member for displaying the highest standards of professional practice. Dr. Usha George, Dean of the Faculty of Community Services at Ryerson describes Professor Lee as being passionate about public health topics and lecturing with enthusiasm that keeps her students interested. Her classes are noted for being stimulating and entertaining because of her great sense of humour and amusing anecdotes. Professor Lee serves on the Board of Directors of the Ontario Food Protection Association and is a member of the National Sanitation Foundation subcommittee setting drinking water equipment standards.

What the Students Say:
"Applies interesting and relevant anecdotes to course material. Good sense of humour. Always has time for students. Always professional."

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Brian Lejnieks

2010 | Faculty of Continuing Education and Training - Seneca College | Brian Lejnieks teaches Business Administration in the Faculty of Continuing Education and Training at Seneca College.

By integrating his experiences and knowledge gained over 23 years in financial services, management consultation and training with the core theoretical curriculum, Brian actively engages his students in open discussions of key business issues.

Brian holds a Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree in Economics from York University, a Diploma in Risk Management and is a Fellow, Chartered Insurance Professional.

What the students say:
"Unlike the traditional way of simply giving a lecture, Brian actually is very open and invites suggestions, shows patience by making sure everyone in the class understands what's going on... He is very knowledgeable with what he teaches. I consider it an honour to have attended his class."

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Jenepher Lennox Terrion

2010 | Faculty of Arts, Department of Communication - University of Ottawa | Jenepher Lennox Terrion is Associate Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Ottawa. She teaches undergraduate and graduate classes in the areas of interpersonal communication, organizational communication, group dynamics and research methods.

As far as her teaching philosophy, Dr. Lennox Terrion believes that it is not the volume of information that she conveys to students that matters, but rather the process of engaging students with the information such that they are motivated to read, spend time on their assignments and reflect on the material and to really take ownership for their own learning.

Dr. Lennox Terrion's research focuses on the impacts of a range of programs including addiction recovery programs, family support programs, mentoring programs, and leadership development programs. She is particularly interested in the role of social capital, or interpersonal relationships, to addiction recovery and to student success, particularly of those who are marginalized.

What the Students Say:
"Professor Lennox Terrion is the most engaging professor I have had during my three years at university. She cares about her students and is dedicated to making them great. Her dynamic teaching style captivates her class. She uses innovative metaphors to ensure her message is put across. Great all around prof!"

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Garry Leonard

2010 | Department of English - University of Toronto Scarborough | Garry Leonard is Professor of English and Cinema at the University of Toronto. He has published two books on James Joyce and dozens of articles on writers such as Sylvia Plath, Edward Albee, Edgar Allan Poe, Alfred Hitchcock and others. His forthcoming book is called "Six Ways of Looking at Modernity: Hollywood Cinematic Genres and the Production of Modern Consciousness".

The first essay derived from this book, "Monsters and Mortgages: Horror Movies as a Prime Economic Indicator," is forthcoming from Film International, and a second "Tears of Joy: Ecstasy and the Restoration of the Sacred in Hollywood Melodrama" is forthcoming from the University of Toronto Quarterly.

He has helped design a unique Film Studies program linked to both Media Studies and the study of Visual Culture in Modernity. This is the fifth time he has been nominated for the TVO Best Lecturer Award.

What the Students Say:
"Professor Leonard has not only changed the way I think about English and literature, but also about life in general... He really provokes and pushes that button in your brain that questions your understanding of things and makes you re-evaluate everything you have ever been told, taught or experienced."

"He has the ability to both captivate and inform students simultaneously... He is focused not only on transferring knowledge to students, but also on teaching them how to produce original thought, and how to express that thought with confidence and clarity... A perfect blend of abstract thought and relevancy."

"He's awesome... When you walk out of his class you feel like you've done something and learned something that you can apply to your day to day life."

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Gilles LeVasseur

2010 | Sprott School of Business - Carleton University |

What the Students Say:
"He engages everyone in the room. If he says something controversial and someone makes a slight reaction he picks up on it and asks them to defend their position. He makes the dull topic of intro business law fun and interesting."

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Byron Lew

2010 | Department of Economics - Trent University |

What the students say:
"He is always there as a teacher, mentor and a friend. I am fortunate to have met him in my student life."

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Shirley Lichti

2010 | School of Business and Economics - Wilfrid Laurier University | Shirley Lichti has an extensive background in sales, marketing, advertising, promotion, and training developed during a fourteen-year career with IBM. She has worked in Canada, the Caribbean and Japan and has experience in both the public and private sectors before transitioning to the academic world.

A people person and dedicated educator, Shirley teaches marketing in the School of Business and Economics (SBE) at Wilfrid Laurier University where she was recognized with the 2002 SBE Outstanding Teacher Award. She was honoured to be included as one of Laurier's "Most Popular Professors" in the MacLean's Guide to Canadian Universities for four consecutive years. In 2007, Shirley was recognized by the Ontario Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities with The LIFT Award for Teaching Excellence.

Feedback from her colleagues and students consistently rates Shirley as a superb instructor who embraces innovative teaching methods that bring a practical, real-world marketing experience to Laurier's business students. She is committed to delivering a strong educational experience, fostering debate, developing critical thinking skills and providing students with insight into marketing theory and practice.

What the Students Say:
"Her teaching style is clear, informative, interesting, and entertaining... She goes out of her way to ensure students understand concepts and gives extra help when needed... Shirley is an incredible professor and Laurier is lucky to have her."

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Dwayne Locke

2010 | School of Community and Health Studies - Centennial College |

What the Students Say:
"He takes our 2 hour class in such a way that we never feel like taking any breaks. His teaching styles, language patterns, personality and attitude are perfect."

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Lori Lockey

2010 | School of Communication, Language, General Studies - Durham College |

What the Students Say:
"She's a great teacher."

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Kenneth Lomp

2010 | School of Health and Community Services - Durham College | Kenneth Lomp has been a full-time professor at Durham College of Applied Arts and Technology in Oshawa since 1995 (part-time since 1988) teaching a variety of courses in Psychology, Counselling and Addictions. In addition, Ken is the Program Coordinator and lead designer for the Addictions and Mental Health Graduate Certificate Program. Ken consulted in the development of the Human Services Counsellor Program, lead the curriculum design for that program and chaired the initial Advisory Committee for Human Services Programs. Ken continues to teach students in the Human Services fields and has taught students in several different programs including Nursing, Practical Nursing, Paramedics and Early Childhood Education.

Ken has an undergraduate degree in science from the University of Toronto where he graduated as a "Specialist in Psychology". In addition, he has a Master's degree in Psychology from Carleton University. Ken is currently completing his Doctorate at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto. His research interest is student motivation and engagement. Additionally, Ken is a published author with research publications in EAP Digest, The British Journal of Addiction, The Journal of Occupational Medicine, The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse and The Annual Review of Addiction Research and Treatment. Prior to joining Durham College, Ken was a researcher, therapist and Program Coordinator at the Pinewood Centre of Lakeridge Health Corporation in Oshawa and Ajax. During his 17-year tenure, Ken was instrumental in the development of several treatment programs, and the expansion to teens, children and families. In addition, Ken received a prestigious community service award for his work with youth and families in Durham Region.

Ken believes that the principal role of a teacher is that of a motivator and a facilitator of learning. Ken's learning-centred approach incorporates many styles of teaching including lecture and active learning (cooperative learning) and he firmly believes that teachers must respect and be keenly focused on the learning needs of the individual student. In keeping with his beliefs, all of Ken's courses follow a blended learning format in which face-to-face learning is combined with online learning opportunities. Moreover, Ken believes that the multicultural mosaic of Canada enhances learning in our post secondary institutions. In keeping with that value, Ken is actively involved with cultural activities in the Estonian community in Toronto.

What the Students Say:
"He is clear concise and very supportive."

"Mr. Lomp has passion in what he teaches, and it comes through in HOW he teaches. He relates his professional experience as well as his academic knowledge of the subject matter, providing students the best of both worlds in a learning experience."

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Mark Long

2010 | Faculty of Continuing Education and Training - Seneca College | Mark Long has been teaching for over 22 years in Toronto to a diverse range of learners in both high school and college. His background is similarly diverse, holding degrees in Political Science, Education, and Counselling Psychology. Mark's passion has been to facilitate the unfoldment of the individual through positive classroom experience. Teaching is an opportunity to reach the inner beauty and energy that is hidden within. A true teacher participates in the full experience of being human, the goal and essence of learning.

In 2005, Mark travelled to teach university in Beijing China for two years, marveling at the cultural riches this remarkable country offers. He currently teaches Liberal Studies in the Faculty of Continuing Education at Seneca College in Toronto.

What the students say:
"Professor Long is the best lecturer I have ever met. He makes our evening class so fun and enjoyable while we are learning at the same time... Every week we all look forward to going to his class for another treat. The most incredible teacher ever."

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Puneet Luthra

2010 | Centre for Human Resources - Seneca College | Dr. Puneet Luthra is a Professor in the school for International Business and Centre for Human Resources. He teaches a variety of courses related to Business and management. For over fifteen years of his career, he has worked in the industry in various organizations from Pharmaceuticals, to home equipment to office automation. This enables him to infuse real life situations in theoretical concepts while teaching.

Motivated by the quote "The art of teaching is the art of assisting discovery", while still working in the industry Dr. Luthra started teaching in 1992 more as a hobby in various leading business schools in India. This pastime slowly turned into a career, and, he moved to UAE in 1997 to take up a position as head of Marketing Studies and successfully established the marketing studies department including program and curriculum development. There he was instrumental in getting the program accredited. During his tenure in UAE, he taught students from a variety of cultural backgrounds and was exposed to the Arab, British and American universities involving articulation arrangements with various institutions around the globe.

Puneet Immigrated to Canada in 2005 and has been teaching at Seneca College since January 2006. Serving on various college level committees at Seneca, he is now the faculty representative from Faculty of Business on the Academic Council. He has been instrumental in establishing the Human Resources Students Association that organized its first case study competition in 2008. Puneet also serves as a Board of Director with Toronto Central Community Care Access Center, and the Centre for Indigenous theatre. He completed his M.Sc. (Genetics), MBA and Ph.D. (Management) from leading institutions in India.

What the students say:
"He keeps the class interactive and interested... His classes are straight to the point and students get all the information they need to know."

"He has immense knowledge and knows how to impart that knowledge... He comes to class with appropriate props and newspaper articles. He has good PowerPoint slides for each of his lessons... It is a pleasure to sit in his class."

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Nanda Lwin

2010 | The School of Civil and Resources Technology - Seneca College Nanda Lwin is a professor of civil engineering technology, specialized in structural engineering and design. He has lived in the Toronto area since 1972 and first became interested in skyscrapers after a childhood visit to the CN Tower in 1978. He spent much of his childhood learning about and drawing tall buildings, which soon became a personal fascination. Inspired, Professor Lwin made a decision while in elementary school to become a structural engineer. Another inspiration was his father, Maung Sann Lwin, also a professional engineer, who had a successful 24-year career at the Atomic Energy of Canada before retiring in March 2003.

Professor Lwin graduated with a degree in civil engineering from the University of Toronto in 1993 and has worked as a structural engineer and a transportation engineer. He was an engineer for NCK Engineering in Toronto, where he worked on the structural rehabilitation program for the CN Tower. In addition, he has worked on various low-rise and high-rise projects and traffic impact studies. In September 2003, Professor Lwin began his career in education, teaching a mathematical-based psychology course at Humber College in Toronto. By January 2004, he was teaching civil engineering courses at Humber and Seneca Colleges as a part-time professor at both institutions. In August 2005, he was promoted to full-time professor at Seneca College. In November 2009, he graduated with a master's degree in engineering and public policy from McMaster University. Professor Lwin is the author and publisher of eight books on popular music and wrote a weekly newspaper column on music charts. He is currently working on his ninth book, also on pop music.

In his leisure time, he enjoys keeping track of music charts, listening to music, reading, writing, cycling, politics and film. He has also performed stand-up comedy at a Toronto comedy club.

What the Students Say:
"His lectures are amazing. Loads of information and very well organized. Goes over things and offers independent help. I don't have him this semester but I really wish I could switch some of my Professors with him."

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Tim MacBride

2010 | School of Business Management - Seneca College | Since 1989, Seneca students have enjoyed Tim's informal, yet informative, lecture style, which balances academic theory with a wealth of practical experience and insight. Drawing on over thirty years of executive level experience in Canadian retail and in the Duty Free business in North America and the Asia Pacific region, Tim infuses his courses with anecdotes and practical applications which both challenge his students and prepare them for their future careers.

What the Students Say:
"He is a very knowledgeable, passionate and understanding professor... Not about testing and short term memory, it is about gaining knowledge for the rest of our life."

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Eleanor MacDonald - Finalist

2010 | Department of Political Studies - Queen's University | After graduating from Carleton University (B.A. '84, M.A. '85) and York University (Ph.D. '91) I began my work at Queen's University, first as postdoctoral fellow and then as a faculty member in the Department of Political Studies, cross-appointed to the Department of Gender Studies. From 2004 to 2007, I was also Associate Dean of Graduate Studies.

My research and teaching focus on contemporary political theories of identity, property, culture and the environment. In 1991, I was awarded the Arts and Science Student Society Teaching Award. I have also been nominated three times for the Frank Knox Teaching Award, and in 2005 was a finalist for the Alumni Award for Excellence in Teaching.

What the Students Say:
"Easily one of the best professors during my time at Queen's. She is an exceptional lecturer because she discusses controversial, and divisive material in a fair manner that allows students who disagree with her to feel comfortable and respected."

video button Professor Eleanor MacDonald's lecture submission.

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Tanis MacDonald,

2010 | Faculty of Arts, English - Wilfrid Laurier University |

What the students say:
"Dr. MacDonald has a way with people and with words. She transforms the challenging and the ordinary into the spectacular with in-class activities which stimulate thought-provoking discussion, therefore engaging students on a critical and a personal level. She captivates with her remarkable degree of professionalism accompanied by her relaxed sense of humour and earnest charm."

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Helen MacDonald.

2010 | Department of History - Trent University |

What the students say:
"Helen is by far the best teacher I have ever had. Not only is she extremely knowledgeable in whatever she teaches, she is also very passionate about what she teaches and inspires others through her passion... She also is not just a teacher, but she teaches you how to learn on your own."

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Monte MacGregor

2010 | Seneca College | I am a full time criminal lawyer and part time professor at Seneca College in Toronto, Ontario. I have taught the introduction to criminal law, evidence and advocacy in the part time paralegal program for three years. My education began at Loyalist College where I obtained a diploma in radio broadcasting and marketing. After a brief stint in commercial radio I returned to Ryerson Polytechnic University to pursue my goal of becoming a lawyer. After two years of business at Ryerson, I was accepted into the Common Law Program at the University of Ottawa Law School. I graduated in 2001 and after being called to the bar in Ontario started working at Gowling Lafleur Henderson in Ottawa, specializing in corporate finance and securities. However, my real passion from the outset was always in criminal law, and it wasn't long before my desire started pulling me in that direction. With the help and support of my wife I left my finance career to open my own practise focusing exclusively on criminal defence in Toronto. I am very fortunate - I love what I do. My job is different and raises new challenges on a daily basis.

Along with my full time career I was very lucky to be offered the opportunity to teach in the part time paralegal program at Seneca College. Each week for three years I have given one night to my students to pass on my knowledge and experience in the criminal legal field. It is truly one of the highlights of my week; I get excited every time I enter the classroom. I remember what it's like to have an amazing professor, to be inspired and to feel that the person before you sincerely believes in what they're offering. I was fortunate enough to experience great teaching through professors Margaret McMillan and David Paciocco in my studies, and it's through their example that I continue to aspire to be the best speaker and guide for my students.

What the Students Say:
"Lectures in an interesting fashion, showing obvious dedication, enthusiasm and interest within the areas that he teaches."

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Jane Mackie

2010 | School of Nursing - Trent University |

What the students say:
"Dr. Mackie has been a great asset to my university education. In a class I thought I would fail I ended up with a great mark as she was able to make me understand everything, even if it meant running into her on campus and asking a quick question."

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Brad MacMaster

2010 | School of Accounting & Finance - University of Waterloo | After 25+ years of business experience as a financial professional and executive- shareholder of several entrepreneurial business ventures, Brad MacMaster has embarked on a new career in academe. His mission is to leverage the diversity of his experience into pragmatic guidance for the current generation of students and to encourage their development of can-do attitudes. With today's rapid pace of change, and recognizing the real differences in instructors' and students' aspirations and values, these experiences are not intended to be prescriptive. They are simply real anecdotes intended to bring syllabus material to life, to highlight the potential value of such material to the students, and to stimulate engagement. His teaching style is interactive, involving many one-on-one conversations where students are encouraged to role-play their way through decision-making scenarios frequently encountered by business owners, managers and accountants. He often employs classroom response systems coupled with peer-instruction to encourage collaboration. The greatest reward: observing students' epiphanies, after due struggle, where they appreciate their own accomplishment of understanding, to the point they become motivated to use / apply their learning in their own lives and careers.

Brad is a Chartered Accountant and Certified Management Consultant. He holds an MBA and BSc from McMaster University. To add value in his new career, he started a PhD in entrepreneurship in 2008 at The Hunter Centre for Entrepreneurship (University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK). Brad began teaching at the university level in 2008 and in that year, received the Faculty Appreciation Award from the Guelph-Humber Students Association. He is an adjunct lecturer at the University of Waterloo (School of Accounting and Finance), Ryerson University (Ted Rogers School of Management - Hospitality & Tourism) and the University of Guelph-Humber (Business Administration Program). He has also taught at MCI (Management Centre Innsbruck) in Austria. Due to his breadth of experience and education, he teaches / has taught a variety of courses in accounting, finance, leadership and marketing research. He has authored and published two comprehensive cases as textbook supplements (advanced financial accounting, marketing research), reviewed one textbook and participated in a couple of pedagogy panels / research groups.

Brad's business and professional background includes a career as a consultant and accountant, both employed with top-tier CA firms and self-employed. He has been the CFO of private and public companies, including Kelsey's Restaurants and Image Processing Systems. The latter company was a global high-tech firm where Brad served as a key member of the executive team responsible for taking the company public, listing it on the TSX and growing it to the top spot on Profit Magazine's 100 Fastest Growing Companies in Canada during the late 1990s.

What the Students Say:
"He has all of the aspects that a great professor should have. He is intriguing, knowledgeable, approachable and hilarious... I think that when a professor can make you excited about what he is teaching, that is very significant and it speaks volumes about their teaching method."

"I have obtained both a college diploma and a university honours degree and in that time there has been no professor that has come close to lecturing with such charisma and creativity. He constantly encourages his students to challenge themselves and strive for a higher commitment than they are used to."

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Dan Mahoney

2010 | School of Nutrition - Ryerson University |

What the Students Say:
"Professor Mahoney is an amazing lecturer... He always gives very practical examples which makes the information much more concrete... His kind nature encourages students to participate in discussion as well. An outstanding professor through and through!"

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Linda Mahood

2010 | Department of History - University of Guelph | Since joining the History Department at the University of Guelph from the academic discipline of sociology, which I taught at the University of Lethbridge and Saskatchewan, my scholarly research interests have continued to revolve around the social history of gender and family, child and social welfare, and charity and philanthropy in Scotland and England. My teaching and scholarly work reflect 20 years of commitment to the empowerment of families and youth. My first book, called 'The Magdalenes (1988)' is a study of shelters for homeless women and sex trade workers that opened in the 1850s. My second book, 'Policing Gender, Class and Family (1995)' is a study of voluntary and state child welfare shelters and agencies and the rehabilitation programs offered to street kids and young offenders between 1850-1945. My most recent book, published last summer, is called, 'Feminism and Voluntary Action: Eglantyne Jebb and Save the Children, 1876-1928'. It is a history of Save the Children and biography of the founder who wrote the Declaration of the Rights of the Child, which was adopted by the UN.

As a university lecturer, I am known for my enthusiasm, sense of humor, passion, fast-talking and exciting research projects. I have received two teaching awards, one for 'Special Merit' and one for 'Excellence' from the university and faculty association. My academic work, community talks and media work focus on making people aware of campaigns for women's and children's rights, the success and failure of early youth service programs and the role philanthropy played in lives of women in the past. In addition to my university work, I have volunteered and fundraised for numerous community, school and amateur sports events, including, executive of Synchronized Swim Club, Minor Hockey, Youth Soccer, Canada Winter Games, food bank, breast cancer and brain cancer runs and Hillside Folk Festival.

Having spent most of the last decade reading and writing about women who spent their lives as volunteers, last summer I decided to do some more intensive hands-on volunteering. I became a certified ESL teacher and earned a diploma in early childhood education and went as a volunteer through World University Services of Canada to Vietnam where I taught primary school teachers. Once there, I discovered that my teachers were not interested in ESL pedagogy, what they really wanted to learn was western songs and games to teach their pupils. Luckily, I once spent many summers as a Y camp counsellor, and had a bevy of catchy tunes in my memory, including the Hokey Pokey, B-I-N-G-O, and Alice the Camel. The first time I did the Hokey Pokey for them, when I looked up, there were 40 cell phones pointed at me filming me singing and dancing. Laughing, dancing and being ridiculous are all part of effective teaching at any level, and reflect my own philosophy, which is 'to start where the learner is'. We teach who we are!

What the Students Say:
"She takes careful consideration to lecture in a captivating way, discussing content that is both interesting and relevant, while presenting it in an interesting way. She encourages questions and gives thorough explanations in return. She truly engages each student in her class."

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Kenneth Maly

2010 | Faculty of Science, Chemistry - Wilfrid Laurier University | Ken Maly was born near Boston, Massachusetts and grew up in Montreal. He attended CEGEP at John Abbott College, where he took his first organic chemistry course. The subject captivated his attention and encouraged him to pursue further studies in organic chemistry.

After completing his studies at John Abbott, he attended Queen's University, graduating in 1997 with a B.Sc. in chemistry. He continued his studies at Queen's, obtaining his Ph.D. in chemistry in 2002. Following an NSERC Postdoctoral Research Fellowship at the Université de Montréal, he joined the Department of Chemistry at Wilfrid Laurier University as an Assistant Professor in 2006. At Laurier, Ken Maly teaches chemistry courses including general chemistry, introductory organic chemistry, as well as some senior level organic chemistry courses. In addition, Ken has an active research program in the area of organic materials chemistry.

What the students say:
"Best prof hands down!"

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Colin Mang

2010 | School of Business and Economics - Nipissing University |

What the Students Say:
"Colin is an amazing prof. He's so helpful in and outside of the classroom even with courses that he does not teach! Many of my peers and I would take all of our classes with him if we could!"

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Richard Mann

2010 | Religion, The College of the Humanities - Carleton University | I received my BA from Wilfrid Laurier University. At Laurier I studied English Literature and Religion & Culture. My MA and PhD are both from McMaster University. At McMaster I studied Religious Studies with a concentration on Indian traditions.

Currently the focus of my research is Hinduism. I taught at Wilfrid Laurier University, McMaster University and the College of William and Mary before settling in Ottawa at Carleton University. At Carleton I teach Asian traditions and the method and theory of religious studies in their Religion program.

What the Students Say:
"He engages students in a positive way. His lectures are the only lectures that I genuinely enjoy attending... It is clear that he has a great love for his work and this is reflected in the way he lectures."

"Professor Mann is an amazing instructor. He is very charismatic and friendly. He is good at engaging the class and keeping us interested throughout the entire lecture."

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Sara Mann.

2010 | Department of Business - University of Guelph |

What the Students Say:
"Great Professor. Lots of experiences. She has her own ways to motivate students, and makes boring material very interesting."

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Rebecca Margolis

2010 | Faculty of Arts, Department of Classics and Religious Studies - University of Ottawa | Rebecca Margolis was born in Hamburg, Germany and raised in Montreal. She received early training in the arts at FACE (Fine Arts Core Education) and an appreciation for secular Jewish culture, including the Yiddish language, at the J.P.P.S. (Jewish People's and Peretz Schools). After receiving a Liberal Arts degree in CEGEP, she pursued her university studies at McGill, first in early Christianity and then in Jewish Studies.

As a research assistant for a project on a local Yiddish newspaper, she developed a strong interest in the history of Montreal's eastern European Jewish mass immigration of the early twentieth century and the culture that it created. This subject became the focus of her graduate studies at Columbia University, where she immersed herself in Yiddish culture; although Yiddish is often called a "dying" language outside of ultra Orthodox Jewish circles, she joined a milieu where her courses were taught in Yiddish, her friends hung out in bars speaking Yiddish, and where she as able to play a role in facilitating a living Yiddish culture among young people as a teacher and community organizer.

Today she finds herself in her dream job in the University of Ottawa's newly created Vered Jewish Canadian Studies Program, where she is able to blend her passion for both Jewish Canadian Studies and Yiddish Studies in the classroom and in the wider community, and engage in exciting new research in her field. In the four years that she has been at the University of Ottawa, she has piloted an intensive Yiddish language and culture program as well as courses about the Jewish Canadian experience, Yiddish language, literature and film, and Holocaust Studies. Her goal as an instructor is to inspire her students to think creatively as well as analytically about the subjects she teaches, no matter what their level of knowledge when they first enter the classroom.

What the Students Say:
"Fabulously well-organized lectures on Judaism and Jewish-Canadian history, with an excellent, wry sense of humour. She can impart her knowledge like no one else -- absolutely fabulous prof."

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John Marshall

2010 | Department of Chemistry and Biology - Ryerson University |

What the Students Say:
"Dr. Marshall is the most inspiring professor. He is one of the major reasons I want to become a researcher in a science field."

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Ruth Martin

2010 | School of Health & Community Services - Durham College | I am married to a wonderful person and my best friend Al. His passion of building custom historical vehicles has given me the opportunity to travel to many different and interesting places and meet so many great people. When not on the road, I am busy gardening, walking, and hiking with friends, and listening to great music.

I call Whitby my home but look forward to purchasing our dream home that will be surrounded by water, trees and dogs both big and small. I have one fabulous son that has truly been the love of my life, the energy that fills my home, and the excitement he brings to my daily life. I have supported and watched him pursue his life-long dream of becoming a musician but it is his tenacious and determined relentless drive that is both contagious and admirable. My best achievement in life is when I hear the word "Mom."

I have had the privilege of owning and operating my own business for 20 years that has taken me on educational journeys from Toronto, Canada to London, England and everywhere in between. I obtained a degree in psychology and sociology from York University, a certificate in Adult Education from Durham College, and a Bachelor of Education from Brock University not to mention the ongoing courses, literature, educational seminars and workshops I continue to attend. My education has set the stage but my biggest accomplishment has been the pleasure of engaging students in passionate learning, for a semester and a lifetime. I hope one day down the road when my students are busy in their everyday lives that they will stop and say "when I took psychology with Ruth..." What an accomplishment!

What the Students Say:
"Ruth Martin is a Psychology teacher who brings the fun into teaching... In her class we learn and have fun."

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Carrie Mashinter

2010 | Centre for Health and Wellness - Georgian College | Carrie Mashinter is a professor at Georgian College in Barrie, Ontario within the School of Health and Wellness and Child Studies. She is a Board of Governor medal winner who holds a diploma in Journalism, a Bachelor of Applied Arts degree in Photography and a Master of Arts degree in Adult Education.

Carrie is a Registered Nurse who currently teaches in the Practical Nursing program and in the Teaching and Training Adults program at Georgian College. She is the editor of Ecotourism Canada Magazine and has worked in several sectors in the community as a reporter, photographer, trainer and community home care nurse. She is the past president of the Barrie branch of the Canadian Cancer Society.

What the students say:
"Carrie remains on track at all times, she engages her class in an manner which allows even the shiest students to open up and explore their creative side. Carrie utilizes many resources to encourage her students to enjoy what they are being taught."

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Dan McArthur

2010 | Department of Philosophy - York University | Dan McArthur received his PhD in 2001 from the University of Ottawa and has since held various teaching and research positions at The University of Regina and Queen's University.

Since 2005 he has worked at York University where he received tenure in 2008. His research interests are primarily in the philosophy of science, particularly philosophical questions relating to the foundations of physics. Recently his research has branched into ethical questions relating to scientific practice and ethical questions relating to new technologies such as nano-technologies and robotics.

He has published in journals such as The Canadian Journal of Philosophy, Synthese, and Science and Engineering Ethics.

What the Students Say:
"Dan is a very knowledgable and dynamic professor. His lectures are full of interesting ideas and questions. His lectures are also interactive & perfectly compliment the course readings. Dan is very energetic and plesant. I have taken 2 different classes with him & I want to take more. I used to work from 7 am to 3 pm and then attend a class from 4-7 pm before coming to Dan's 7-10 class & I felt more energized and alert in his class than I did all day long."

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Sharon McCleave

2010 | School of Health Sciences - Seneca College |

What the students say:
"Excellent lecturer: informative, fun, and engaging."

"A great professor who is engaging, funny and very well organized... To keep a student's attention for 7 hours a week in anatomy and physiology is a great accomplishment!"

"She makes learning fun and interesting. She has a teaching technique that is very unique... She goes above and beyond for her students."

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David McClyment

2010 | Fine Arts Studio, School of Communications, Media and Design - Centennial College | David McClyment graduated from the Ontario College of Art with that school's Medal in Fine Arts. Since that time he has been a home renovator, a cross-country ski instructor and coach, a supervisor of mentally challenged adults, an admin clerk in a hospital's emergency department, an arts administrator, a project officer, an author, a visual artist career coach, a graphic designer and teacher. He has developed a number of self help resources for artists and lectured extensively on professional practices and career management in the visual arts.

And through all that, McClyment has maintained his focus on his true passion, which is painting. He has been exhibiting professionally throughout the GTA, the Province and internationally for almost 30 years. His work has been recognized with generous support from the Canada Council for the Arts, the Ontario Arts Council and the Toronto Arts Council. He has been active in launching a number of artist-run initiatives, collectives and co-operatives. McClyment is currently represented by the David Kaye Gallery along the Queen West strip in Toronto. (www.davidkayegallery.com) You can also find examples of McClyment's work at the website of the Centre for Contemporary Canadian Art (www.ccca.ca).

McClyment is the Co-ordinator of the Fine Arts Studio Program at The Centre for Creative Communications at Centennial College in Toronto. He also teaches drawing, painting and professional practices for visual artists. McClyment is inspired daily by his long time reason for living, Sue Bracken, and their eminently talented son, Jaimie.

What the students say:
"His stories and experience make you never want to leave the class. He is always delighted to help in any way he can."

"David is always happy and cheerful and makes class a joy. He talks to students as if they were his closest friends and gets to know them individually."

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John McCullough

2010 | Department of Film - York University |

What the students say:
"John is an extraordinary lecturer and teacher, with a specialization in large class teaching. He was twice cited in Maclean's as one of the most popular lecturers at York. His film classes are great: informative, engaging, thought-provoking."

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Douglas McDermid

2010 | Department of Philosophy - Trent University |

What the Students Say:
"Among many professors that I have come across at Trent and other post-secondary institutions, there are few that have presented the ability to teach intellectually, while catering to the student body's interest in terms of humour and practicality. Delivery is one of the most difficult aspects of lecturing... Professor McDermid is quick to answer questions, directly, clearly and with great enthusiasm."

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Matthew McKean

2010 | Department of History - Carleton University |

What the Students Say:
"Matthew McKean is not only hilarious, engaging, and jubilant, he is incredibly intelligent and makes you want to learn."

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John McNamara

2010 | Department of Child and Youth Studies - Brock University | John McNamara is an Associate Professor in the Department of Child and Youth Studies at Brock University. He teaches both undergraduate and graduate classes in child psychology with a focus on language and learning disabilities. John was recently awarded a number of teaching distinctions including Brock University's Award for Distinguished Teaching and the Brock University Chancellor's Chair for Teaching Excellence.

John's primary research interests center around learning disabilities and early identification. His current research project is aimed at exploring how summer literacy programs can support young children and their families. This work is supported by a federal research grant from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada. John also directs the Child and Youth Studies Reading Project where he supervises Brock University students in working with children from the community who are struggling with reading disabilities.

John completed his Ph.D. at Simon Fraser University and has an MA and BA in psychology from Brock University. He also obtained his teacher certification at the University of Kent in England.

What the students say:
"Professor McNamara is a funny, brilliant lecturer... His accessible and relatable personal anecdotes allow for a greater understanding of the material itself. Overall, a wonderful professor."

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Vlasios Melessanakis

2010 | School of Public Policy and Administration - Carleton University | Vlasios Melessanakis is a Manager in the Policy Initiatives Division of the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI), where he provides policy advice to the Superintendent and other senior management at OSFI on a wide range of regulatory issues relating to the financial sector.

Vlasios has over 13 years of experience in economic research, analysis and policy development in the private sector, government and academia, of which 9 were as a Senior Economist and Advisor for the Financial Sector Policy Branch of the Department of Finance Canada. He also served as Departmental Secretary, a key executive position of the Department of Finance, during the transition of the new federal government in 2006. As well, Vlasios teaches several courses at Carleton University's Arthur Kroeger College of Public Affairs and School of Public Policy and Administration, most notably graduate courses on the "Political Economy of Regulation" and the "Regulation of Financial Institutions", the only course of its kind currently offered in Canada -- with a distinct emphasis on public policy and not finance/economics.

Vlasios has a diverse educational background, including a B.A and M.A. in Economics from Wilfrid Laurier University, an M.B.A. in Finance from the Schulich School of Business (York University), and a Graduate Diploma in International Relations from the London School of Economics. He has also completed doctoral studies in Public Policy at Carleton University.

Vlasios and his wife, Olympia, have two children, George and Antonia.

What the Students Say:
"His knowledge of and passion for the subject of financial regulation, and his unique insight on the interconnectivity of the global financial system and the policy and real-world implications of its current loss of balance is astounding. He has the ability to bring simplicity to complex and often inaccessible information, and to bring far-flung big ideas together and show how they intersect in often invisible ways... Most importantly of all, however, is his warmth, humour and clarity of speech, and his ability to make learning not only fascinating, but fun."

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Bruce Meyer - Finalist

2010 | Department of English - Laurentian University at Georgian College | Bruce Meyer is Professor, University Studies, English, in the University Partnership Centre at Georgian College where he teaches in the Laurentian University BA Program.

He received his BA and MA from the University of Toronto, and his Ph.D. at McMaster. He held a SSHRC Post-Doctoral Fellowship from 1988 to 1990. He has taught at the University of Toronto, the University of Windsor, McMaster University, and has been Visiting Writer/Writer-in-Residence at the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Southern Mississippi. He is author of 30 books of non-fiction, poetry, short fiction, literary journalism, and pedagogy. Among his titles are The Golden Thread: A Reader's Journey Through the Great Books (2000) and Heroes: From Hercules to Superman (2007). His ground-breaking work on World War One Canadian poetry led to the first anthology of Canada's trench literature since 1918, We Wasn't Pals: Canadian Poetry and Prose of the First World War (edited with Barry Callaghan and with an Afterword by Margaret Atwood). His most recent titles are Mesopotamia and Dog Days: A Comedy of Terriers. His broadcasts on literature for the CBC, The Great Books, A Novel Idea and Great Poetry are the network's bestselling spoken word CD series.

He lives in Barrie, Ontario where he teaches Major British Authors, Modern Literature, Creative Writing, Canadian Literature, and the Great Books.

What the Students Say:
"He is the most dedicated individual I know - dedicated to his students, his community and his work. He has a passion for poetry that he shares with the world through his books and readings. His love for English is contagious."

video button Professor Bruce Meyer's lecture submission.

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Doris Miculan Bradley

2010 | School of Hospitality and Tourism Management - George Brown College | We introduce to you, Doris Miculan Bradley, Professor, George Brown College, Raconteur, Chef, and Master Sommelier Candidate. She's also a Gentle Dame knighted with Chateau Magnol in Bordeaux who "Swears to defend forever, the famous and respectable House of Barton and Geustier." "Life is an interaction and exploration of people, food and beverage and culture. How wonderful it is when the three elements come together!"

This Industry Professional, former General Manager for The 360 Restaurant at The CN Tower left her 23-year career to share a wealth of experience with the future generation of The Food and Beverage Industry. An award winning Sommelier and published journalist, Doris continues to contribute to special events in the Southern Ontario and Upstate New York area including Judge for The All Canadian Wine Competition and The Finger Lakes Wine Competition.

"I am in a privileged position when I can collaborate education with students that are genuinely interested in the subject manner. Education is at a dynamic point that is integrating technology, ideas and experience. We need to include the educational path that our forefathers lay before us while riding the curves where the future drives us."

What the Students Say:
"She's an inspiration to us and she always motivates us to learn more. She's knowledgeable in her field and always loves to show how we can apply ourselves to our learning studies... Because of her I am a better student!"

"She is always exceptionally cheerful... she is very supportive of all her students' thoughts and opinions. Her classes are always very interesting."

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Mitzi G. Mitchell

2010 | School of Nursing - York University | Mitzi Grace Mitchell has been a Lecturer in the Faculty of Health, School of Nursing, at York University since 2004. Previously, she was an Educator at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre in Toronto Ontario. As a Registered Nurse, Mitzi has pursued a career as a gerontological specialist for over twenty years. During this time, she has continually studied to upgrade her knowledge. Presently, she is pursuing a PhD in Public Health with gerontology as the focus of her research.

She has written a book chapter in the text, "Fundamentals of Nursing: The Nature of Nursing Practice in Canada" (2nd ed.) (Pearson, 2009). Recent publications include articles in "Nursing Philosophy", "Perspectives", and "The Alberta Journal of Educational Research". In 2004, Mitzi appeared as a guest on TVO's "2nd Opinion" where she spoke about ageism in healthcare.

Mitzi is an active member of the Registered Nurses' Association of Ontario. She has served on the executive committee of the Clinical Nurse Specialist Interest Group as a Student Member, President, Past President, and currently is the Director of Membership and Education. Mitzi has presented her research work at national and international conferences and has been a keynote speaker at many workshops and seminars.

What the students say:
"Mitzi was one of the best professors I have ever heard... One never feels bored or obligated to participate, it's the opposite - one wants to discover what the class has got to offer. Her classes are always full."

"She's very constructive, accessible, enthusiastic, humorous, caring, passionate and non-judgmental. She is a lecturer that appreciates students' own accomplishments and does not ridicule wrong answers."

"Professor Mitchell is a very astute, intelligent and compassionate lecturer. The content and delivery of her lectures are superb. As her students, we would rather miss our meals than miss her class. Professor Mitchell will go the extra mile at any time, to explain or resolve any difficult concept we may encounter. She is a pleasure to watch and listen to."

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Cathy Miyata

2010 | Faculty of Education - Brock University | Cathy is a Primary/Junior Language Education Instructor with Brock University in the Department of Teacher Education. She keeps a pact with her classes: they must be involved and stimulated- physically, socially and cognitively- in every session, or they can leave. For Cathy, that's a lecture. Formerly a teacher and teacher-librarian, Cathy has been freelancing as an educational consultant specializing in literacy and the arts since 1987. Her experience in education is widely diverse having spent eleven years conducting master classes demonstrating arts-infused education with the internationally acclaimed Learning though the Arts program in Malaysia, Japan, Greece, Portugal, Germany and across Canada.

As a professional storyteller and award winning author she has also lectured and taught courses in Sweden, Greece, Mexico, the United States and Serbia. She is known as a highly interactive and engaging Key Note speaker and frequents conferences delivering workshops and seminars in professional development. In Ontario, Cathy has also worked with the National Film Board, CBC Radio, the Art Gallery of Ontario and the Royal Ontario Museum as well as hosting and producing an award-winning cable television program for children. Cathy's published works include The Reading Edge, Speaking Rules! (currently the Ontario Ministry's primary resource document for oral language), Starring Me! and Journey Into Storytelling. Her first young adult novel, Two Large to Go, will be released in 2010.

To keep life interesting, Cathy is currently finishing her M.A. and hopes to start her doctoral studies in education next year.

What the Students Say:
"The first day of Brock Teacher's college, Cathy was our motivational speaker who literally brought tears to everyone's eyes from her moving words. She is now my Language Arts teacher at the college. Cathy keeps the class engaged the entire 2 hours of teaching and makes sure everyone is always included. She is even able to make grown adults beg for the conclusion of the children's story she begins at the beginning of each class."

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Emir Mohammed

2010 | Faculty of Law - University of Windsor | Professor Emir Aly Crowne-Mohammed is an Assistant Professor at the University of Windsor, Faculty of Law. His teaching and research interests lie in all areas of Intellectual Property Law (domestic, comparative and international), Information Technology Law, Medical Law, Gaming Law, Torts and Contract Drafting/Negotiation. Along with the Windsor Review of Legal and Social Issues, he founded the Canadian Law Student Conference - the only undergraduate Law student conference in Canada to showcase the research of LLB and JD students. He also founded the Harold G. Fox Moot (www.ipmootcanada.ca) - the first and only national competitive Moot in Intellectual Property Law.

He has also recently written a book on Mooting, to be published in late Fall 2009 with Irwin Law. Professor Crowne-Mohammed has published over 25 articles in the past 2 years (8 of which were peer-reviewed) in journals like the Oxford Journal of Intellectual Property Law & Practice, the Journal of Information Law & Technology, the Gaming Law Review and Economics, the Privacy & Data Security Law Journal, the Advocates' Quarterly, and the Richmond Journal of Law & Technology, among others. He is a member of the Editorial Board of the Canadian Patent Reporter and the Gaming Law Review & Economics; and serves as a 'Distinguished Advisor' to Global IP Watch (http://www.globalipwatch.com/), and is an Appointed Member of the Justices of the Peace Review Council (http://www.ontariocourts.on.ca/jprc/en/).

Professor Crowne-Mohammed was also named Professor of Year by the Students' Law Society at the University of Windsor in 2008, and again in 2009. To him 'teaching' is a dialogue, not a performance. It's not about demonstrating how smart you are; it's about connecting with students, and making them realize their own potential.

What the Students Say:
"Professor Mohammed is a young, enthusiastic, brilliant law professor at one of the most dynamic law schools in Canada... Professor Mohammed inspires students to interact during his lectures and to question long standing theories of law from a modern and practical perspective. He draws upon his vast body of knowledge and professional understanding to challenge the quit pro quo, allowing students to learn the law through possibilities: not just what the law is now, but what the law could be, should be, or how the law might transform in the future... Professor Mohammed breaks the mold."

"Professor Mohammed ("ProMo") is without a doubt the most 'involved' professor in the entire Faculty as far as student-teacher interactions are concerned... I have never in my academic experience seen a professor who so obviously cares about his students. Above all, he is a professor of action, and I wholeheartedly nominate him for Best Lecturer."

"Professor Mohammed is an outstanding lecturer and faculty member at the University of Windsor. His commitment to his students is unmatched within the Faculty of Law and his courses in Torts, Internet Law, Patent Law and Legal Research and Writing are highly sought after by students."

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Myriam Mongrain

2010 | Department of Psychology - York University | Myriam Mongrain is a clinical psychologist and Associate Professor of Psychology at York University. She has extensive experience in teaching at the undergraduate and graduate levels and has been widely lauded for her efforts teaching her first year course, Introduction to Psychology. Her section has an enrolment in excess of 500 each year and is consistently over-subscribed.

Professor Mongrain was born in Quebec and is fluently bi-lingual. She is a graduate of McGill University and completed a post-doctoral fellowship at the University of California at Davis. She is an active clinician and researcher. Her research has focused largely on the role of emotional dependence and self-criticism in the occurrence of major depression. She is an active member of the American Psychological Association, the Canadian Psychological Association and the Society for Interpersonal Theory and Research.

Professor Mongrain received the Dean's Award for Outstanding Teaching in 2005 from the Faculty of Arts at York University. In 2008, she was nominated for TVO's Best Lecturer Competition and in 2009, was nominated for a University-Wide Teaching award at York University.

What the students say:
"Whenever I run into a student who has been taught by Dr. Mongrain in the past, she is consistently lauded as one of the most engaging, innovative, and professional lecturers... One of Dr. Mongrain's greatest strengths is her creative and professional teaching style; Dr. Mongrain uses in-class demonstrations, real life examples and various forms of multimedia during her lectures."

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Eric Moore

2010 | Department of Mathematics - University of Toronto Scarborough | Eric Moore is originally from the east coast. He completed joint programs in mathematics and education (BA. & BEd.) and a masters in mathematics at Memorial University of Newfoundland. A Ph.D. in mathematics, under the supervision of Professor P. Fantham, followed from the University of Toronto. His mathematical interests include homotopy and category theory.

Eric is currently a Senior Lecturer in Mathematics at the University of Toronto Scarborough and has been teaching mathematics at the University of Toronto Scarborough for more than 30 years.

His non-academic interests include gardening and photography.

What the students say:
"Professor Eric Moore is an under-appreciated lecturer who makes multi-variable calculus less dull. Due to the dry nature of the topic, it takes heroic effort on the part of the educator to make it anywhere nearly as tolerable as one of Prof. Moore's lectures."

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Chris Motz

2010 | Department of Psychology - Carleton University | "To teach is to create a space in which the community of truth is practiced" Parker Palmer (1998)

Originally from the University of Manitoba, I was hired in 2006 by Carleton University's Department of Psychology to focus on teaching. There are two core beliefs that are integral to my philosophy of teaching and learning. The first is the idea of the educator as learning facilitator, and the second is the idea of lifelong learning. The idea of the educator as learning facilitator is based on the belief that we, as educators, need to engage our students in the content of our discipline. When students are engaged with the content, they make that material a part of themselves; it becomes integrated with their existing knowledge. The educator as learning facilitator promotes opportunities for students to see the content as real, practical, and relevant to themselves.

The second core assumption is the concept of lifelong learning. This is based on the parable "give someone a fish... teach them to fish...". As educators, in addition to teaching the content of our discipline, we also have the responsibility to attempt to foster critical thinking skills in our students (Chickering & Gamson, 1991).

In my time at Carleton, I have been working to foster "learning communities" for students, both inside and outside of the classroom, as well as for faculty. As much as I enjoy our time together in class, I find that I most enjoy these opportunities to gather together with students to discuss the discipline, or to gather with other faculty to discuss our struggles and triumphs in the teaching of our discipline.

What the Students Say:
"Professor Chris Motz is an incredible lecturer. I have had more than one class with him and, no matter the subject, his classes are always interesting, engaging, and insightful."

"He encourages discussion, he makes you passionate about the subject he teaches. You can tell that he enjoys teaching and that's a big quality about him, he teaches. He doesn't simply read from a lecture slide, he really wants you to understand what he's teaching."

"Motz brings the textbook alive, keeps you engaged for every second of the 3 hour lecture weekly, and devotes more time to his students than I have ever witnessed."

"He makes things easy to comprehend, he is funny and captivating... He is very excited about what he teaches and it's hard not to pick up on that and get excited too."

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Nick Mount

2010 | Department of English - University of Toronto St. George | Nick Mount is Associate Professor of English at the University of Toronto, St. George campus. Born in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, he's a bi-coastal Canadian, with degrees from the University of Victoria on the west coast and Dalhousie University on the east.

A former Teaching Fellow of the University of King's College, Dr. Mount now teaches courses in Canadian literature and literary theory for the UofT, as well as a large first-year course, Literature for Our Time. He is the author of When Canadian Literature Moved to New York (University of Toronto Press), winner of the 2005 Gabrielle Roy Prize. In 2007 he was a finalist in TVO's Best Lecturer Competition and the recipient of a Faculty of Arts and Science Outstanding Teaching Award. In 2009, he won the University of Toronto's President's Teaching Award and a National Magazine Silver Award for his essay "The Return of Beauty" in Queen's Quarterly.

What the students say:
"He manages to clearly explain even the most complicated literary theory, while remaining entertaining and whimsical in his delivery... Although I am going into my fourth year as an English Specialist at the University of Toronto, I plan on sitting in on Professor Mount's first year course "Literature for our Time" because I missed my opportunity to take it earlier in my undergraduate degree."

"After taking a first year course with him, I enrolled in a third year literary criticism course simply on the basis that he was teaching it... His passion in his subject is evident, and he truly has a gift for getting his students interested in subjects they previously might not have explored. I can't imagine a better lecturer than Nick Mount."

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Daniel Mroz

2010 | Faculty of Arts, Department of Theatre - University of Ottawa | Daniel Mroz is a theatre artist and teacher. He is the founding director of One Reed Theatre Ensemble based in Toronto, and was a co-founder of Montréal's La Compagnie du Pont-fleurs. An artist devoted to contemporary and interdisciplinary work, he is currently leading Les Ateliers du corps, a long-term theatre training and creation studio in Ottawa, Canada. An Associate Professor in the Department of Theatre of the University of Ottawa, he teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in theatre practice and theory, in English and French.

Daniel Mroz trained as a performer under Canadian director and acting teacher Richard Fowler and his company Primus Theatre from 1993 to 1997. He holds a PhD in the practice of interdisciplinary arts from the Doctorat en études et pratiques des arts of l'Université du Québec à Montréal. In 2007 he was nominated for the Siminovitch Prize in Theatre for Directing. In 2009 he was awarded both a major Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council Research/Creation Grant and the Alan Blizzard Award for Collaborative Excellence in University Teaching.

A long-time student of Chinese martial arts, Daniel has combined his martial movement training with the embodied approach to acting he learned from Primus Theatre. He calls this work The Dancing Word, an integrated approach to performer preparation and original performance composition. He has taught professional actors and dancers in Montréal, Toronto, Ottawa, New York, Paris and Istanbul.

What the Students Say:
"He keeps the classes interesting... He brings in his personal experiences to use as examples for what he is teaching us and uses lots of videos that relate what he is speaking about."

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Ingrid Mueller

2010 | School of International Business - Seneca College | Born in Hamilton, Ontario, Ingrid started her career in advertising with Foote, Cone and Belding while completing her education in marketing at Ryerson. After a one year stint travelling abroad with her husband, she returned to Toronto and entered a career in magazine publishing.

After more than 25 years in the publishing business, Ingrid discovered teaching and has not looked back. While maintaining a position as National Advertising Sales Specialist for CGA Magazine, Ingrid has taught marketing and business at Seneca College since 1999.

Ingrid is a published author and claims the most fulfilling job she's ever had is teaching. Amongst her many achievements, she is most proud of her Certificate of Recognition for Student Engagement; and the fact that she has consistently achieved above average scores (60-80% very good to outstanding) in Evaluation of Professor on Student Feedback Surveys 2001-2009. She is passionate about teaching and employs a teaching style she calls "Edutainment".

What the Students Say:
"Ingrid goes far beyond ordinary lecturers and students appreciate it... She constantly adjusts her teaching style for various types of learners by posting excellent study notes and aids in various formats including audio, allowing students to have her lectures on their iPods."

"She is a good speaker, and she tries her best to teach her subject to students."

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Michael Mulvey

2010 | Telfer School of Management - University of Ottawa | Dr. Mulvey is an Assistant Professor of Marketing at the University of Ottawa's Telfer School of Management (2003-present). Previously, he held research and teaching positions at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey (1996-2002) and Penn State University (1993-1996). He has also served as a visiting professor at Rutgers Business School (2005-06) and the Bucharest School of Management (2006-present). At Rutgers, Dr. Mulvey was named GE Teaching Fellow in 2000 for his innovative use of technology in the classroom and he was a three-time finalist for the Paul Nadler Award for Teaching Excellence and a finalist for the Thomas H. Mott Teaching Excellence Award. He was recently nominated for TVO's 2010 Best Lecturer Competition.

Dr. Mulvey's research focuses on how products, brands and behaviours gain personal relevance to consumers. He is an expert in using qualitative research methods such as metaphor elicitation, means-end theory and the laddering technique to uncover how customers think. His recent research examines branding and positioning strategy, advertising design and testing, and perceived value and consumer choice. Dr. Mulvey's articles have been published in journals including The Journal of Retailing, The Journal of Public Policy and Marketing, International Journal of Research in Marketing, Advances in Consumer Research, Journal of Leisure Research and Innovative Marketing. He has presented his work at many international conferences and often shares his expertise as a commentator in the media.

For more than ten years Dr. Mulvey has provided Marketing consultation and expert witness services to clients in the financial services, tourism, consumer-packaged goods, retail, and not-for-profit industry segments. Past clients include Bank of America, Corporation for Public Broadcasting, Harrah's Casino, Hilton Hotels, Motorola, New York State, Panasonic, ShopRite Supermarkets, Toyota, and United Way. He has also provided expert testimony to the Superior Court of Québec, Federal Court of Canada and Competition Bureau Canada regarding brand confusion, trademark infringement and price deception.

What the Students Say:
"For me it's really simple: Prof Mulvey managed to make me appreciate and enjoy marketing, which is as close to walking across water as is possible for a professor."

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Barbara Murck

2010 | Department of Geography - University of Toronto Mississauga | Barbara Murck (Ph.D., CCEP) is a Senior Lecturer in Geography and Environmental Science at the University of Toronto Mississauga. She completed her undergraduate degree in Geological and Geophysical Sciences at Princeton University and then spent several years in the Peace Corps in West Africa, before returning to graduate studies at the University of Toronto. Her subsequent teaching and research has involved a combination of environmental science, geology, natural hazard management, and environmental issues in the developing world. She has participated in projects in Niger, China, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, focusing mainly on urban and rural environmental management issues, acting as a gender, curriculum development, and training specialist. She also carries out practical research on pedagogy, and is an award-winning lecturer who has authored a number of textbooks.

Barb is committed to her students and thinks UTM is a great place to work and teach. She enjoys seeing her students mature over the four years they spend at U of T, and she especially enjoys helping them awaken their interest in the natural environment. Outside of her work at UTM, Barb is a member of the Board of Directors of the Ontario Trillium Foundation, as well as Citizens' Environment Watch, a small non-profit organization dedicated to citizen science on behalf of the environment. She is also a committed volunteer for Toronto Brigantine, a charitable organization that provides teamwork and leadership training for youth aboard traditional square-rigged tall ships, and for the Friends of Old Port Credit Village, of which she was a founding member.

What the students say:
"Good presenter. Has a lot of background information on the topic being discussed. Lecture is well planned and everything ties together at the end of the lecture."

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Graham Murphy

2010 | Department of Cultural Studies- Trent University |

What the students say:
"His lecturing technique is enlightening and thought provoking, while not being overbearing. I finished his class with a grade that I am proud of and it inspired me to attend full-time this fall."

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Maurice Nelischer

2010 | School of Environmental Design and Rural Development - University of Guelph | With over 27 years teaching, research and practice experience Maurice still thrives on the energy gained through engagement with students, faculty and the profession. Over the years he has focused efforts on the scholarship of teaching and developing skills in teaching and administration taking on various roles including, undergraduate program coordinator, department and school director, and president of the International Council of Educators in Landscape Architecture. He has developed a particular interest in teaching design at the introductory level. For the past number of years he has also been the director of the School of Environmental Design and Rural Development at the University of Guelph.

Sabbatical leaves have allowed him to experience, and contribute to, other programs as a visiting scholar and professor at MIT, University of Miami, University of Portugal, and Cal Poly. As an ongoing chair of accreditation teams he has a comprehensive view of various administrative cultures and procedures at universities across North America. His scholarly activity has included publication of books and journal articles, research into sustainable landscape practices, communications, visual simulation, and teaching methods. He has been awarded a number of university and international teaching awards and has been called upon to help restructure programs at a number of universities.

He is a strong advocate of service learning and community outreach, recognizing the value of serving, and learning from, the community. He is widely traveled and embraces a global view particularly as it will affect graduates moving on to become effective citizens.

What the Students Say:
"He makes every student feel at home and a part of the Landscape family... Maurice's strong commitment is essential to the personal growth of every student. Outside of the university, Maurice continues to practice in community planning and design and his experience is reflected through his unique teaching style."

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Sonja Nikkila

2010 | Department of English - University of Toronto Scarborough | Sonja Nikkila grew up in Detroit, watching both of her parents give lectures on gardening and horticultural photography - she saw what their talks and classes looked like from the backs of auditoriums, from the book-sales table, even from inside the wheelbarrow on occasion, and in her own lecturing life she has tried to incorporate that "anytime, anywhere, anyhow" mentality. In fact, the first lecture she ever gave was delivered all but impromptu: she was nine, her mom had a throat infection, and the topic - butterfly and wildlife gardening - was right in her backyard, so to speak.

Sonja's life since then has been focused on the classroom, and on keeping that classroom as varied as possible. After four years in Boston completing a B.A. at Harvard University (graduating summa cum laude in English Literature), she took off across the Atlantic to pursue her PhD at the University of Edinburgh, in Scotland. During her graduate work she taught for the university's English Literature department, for an international summer school, and for an outreach program working with local high school kids - teaching everyone from 17-year-old Glaswegians to mechanical engineers from Guadalajara, Mexico, to retired schoolteachers from the American Midwest.

Sonja has had a passion for reading and writing for as long as she can remember, and she is delighted to be sharing her love of literature with the students at University of Toronto Scarborough, where her current teaching repertoire includes Critical Thinking About Narrative, Literary History, Literary Theory, and Life Writing. When not teaching or traveling, Sonja can be found at home on the Danforth in Toronto, where she lives with her partner Cameron and their houseplants Ming, Trogdor, Gonzo, and The Indestructible Poinsettia.

What the Students Say:
"The classes are so great that you won't even know how the time passes. You become fascinated in the classes with her excellent knowledge and presentation of the material."

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Fred Nitzsche

2010 | Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering - Carleton University | Prof. Fred Nitzsche, a native from São Paulo, Brazil obtained his degree of Aeronautical Engineer from Instituto Tecnológico de Aeronautica (ITA) in 1976. Prof. Nitzsche received his PhD degree from Stanford University (USA) in 1983, where he had the honour of being one of the late Prof. Holt Ashley's students (the most recognized scientist in the area of Aeroelasticity). Prof. Nitzsche worked in the Brazilian aeronautical industry between 1983 and 1990 in the design, research and development of aircraft and launch vehicles. At EMBRAER, the Brazilian aircraft manufacturer, he was the head of the Aeroelasticity Group. In 1990 Prof. Nitzsche moved to Göttingen, Germany and worked as a scientist at DLR's Institute of Aeroelasticity in the field of rotorcraft active control of noise and vibration and was one of the initiators of today's well-recognized field of "Smart" or Adaptive Structures Technology. In 1995, Prof. Nitzsche moved to Canada to become a Research Officer at the Institute for Aerospace Research of the National Research Council of Canada (NRCC).

Since 1999 Prof. Nitzsche has been at the Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering Department of Carleton University, where in 2002 he was promoted to the rank of Full Professor. He is the leader of the department's Rotorcraft Research Group whose main project, SHARCS, aims to demonstrate experimentally new "smart" structures technologies for rotary wing noise and vibration suppression. He is the author of over 100 refereed publications in the areas of Aeroelasticity of fixed and rotary wings, Structural Dynamics and Control, Aeroacoustics and Smart Structures. Prof. Nitzsche was granted several research awards, including twice receiving the UK's Royal Aeronautical Society prize for an outstanding journal paper (in 2001 and 2005). In 2007, he served as the General Chair of the 18th International Conference on Adaptive Structures Technologies (ICAST) held in Ottawa, Canada. He has been invited as a Visiting Professor at the Technical University of Athens, Greece (2000), University of São Paulo, Brazil (2004) and University of Rome, Italy (2009).

Professor Nitzsche is currently responsible for teaching Aerospace Engineering courses (3rd and 4th year, graduate-level): "Introductory Aeroelasticity", "Lightweight Structures" and "Acoustics and Noise Control."

What the Students Say:
"His notes are extremely well organized and he is very helpful with the subject. This reflects his experience in the field and he is very confident in delivering the material when instructing his students."

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Nancy Nixon

2010 | School of Accounting and Financial Services - Seneca College |

What the Students Say:
"Not only did I personally enjoy coming to her classes in my SSC 100 (Success Strategies for College) course at Seneca College, but her style of teaching also made this particular course enjoyable for me as well. In addition, Nancy Nixon was a professor who demonstrated a sincere commitment toward the welfare of her students."

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Maureen Nummelin

2010 | International Business Management, School of Business and Hospitality - Conestoga College | Dr. Maureen Nummelin is currently a Professor at Conestoga College ITAL where she teaches in the International Business Management Degree Program. She has also completed teaching assignments at Wilfrid Laurier University and the University of Guelph. Her teaching responsibilities include Business Strategy, Human Resources Management and Labour Relations courses, at both diploma and degree levels. She is also an inaugural member of the Research Ethics Board at Conestoga College and is a past Program Coordinator for both the Business Management Program and the Post graduate certificate program in Human Resources Management.

Her research interests focus on the alignment of human resource management practices with overall business strategy and also the research ethics issues which are particular to student participants.

Dr. Nummelin completed an Honours Bachelor of Commerce degree (Personnel and Industrial Relations) at Queen's University, a Masters in Education (Curriculum, Teaching and Learning) at the University of Toronto and a PhD (Management Science) at the University of Waterloo. She holds a number of professional designations including both CHRP and CIM designations. Dr. Nummelin was the recipient of the Aubrey Hagar distinguished teaching award (1998) and the June Dahmer Award (2000) in recognition of her teaching and curriculum development expertise. Prior to her academic appointments, Dr. Nummelin worked in both the petrochemical and consulting industries.

What the Students Say:
"Dr. Nummelin is not only one of the most engaging professors that I have ever had, but also one of the most dynamic individuals that I have ever met. Although her courses are very rigorous and expectations are high, her ability to deliver so much material using so many different methods kept even the worst student engaged."

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Richard Oleschuk

2010 | Department of Chemistry - Queen's University | Richard Oleschuk obtained his B.Sc.H. (1994) and Ph.D. (1998) from the Department of Chemistry at the University of Manitoba. His doctoral studies with Arthur Chow involved researching both polymer based extraction methods for metal complexes and membrane sample preparation methods for mass spectrometry.

In 1998, Richard was awarded a Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) Post Doctoral Fellowship, which he tenured in D. J. Harrison's laboratory at the University of Alberta. His postdoctoral work involved developing miniaturized analysis devices, incorporating solid phase extraction and electrochromatography into lab-on-a-chip devices.

Richard is interested in the area of microfluidics, specifically focusing on microfluidic devices constructed from different polymer materials and integrating these devices with mass spectrometry.

What the Students Say:
"Dr. Oleschuk is able to captivate and excite students about the field of analytical chemistry. He takes a complicated math heavy subject and makes it fun to learn. He applies abstract concepts to everyday subjects relevant to his student audience."

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David Olivier

2010 | Laurier Brantford - Wilfrid Laurier University |

What the students say:
"Each lecture is captivating as he takes each student back into history and creates such vivid images of wars, conflicts and political times. He is easy to listen to, even during the 3 hour classes. He is a fair yet demanding professor, forcing his students to reach their very best."

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Robert R. Orr

2010 | Department of Psychology, Child Clinical - University of Windsor Dr. Orr received his Ph.D. from the Institute of Child Behavior and Development at The University of Iowa in 1969. He began teaching at the University of Windsor in the Department of Psychology in the fall of that year and is now beginning his fifth decade at the University. Throughout that period, he has been a member of the subgroup in the Psychology Department focussed on child development. During that time he has also served in several administrative capacities, including seven years as department head and six years as an associate dean in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences.

He has pursued several areas of research in his career. His research has emphasized stress in families living with a family member with a developmental disability, the role of forgiveness in families and everyday life, and, more recently, the personality characteristics associated with young adults' use of computer-mediated communication tools. His most recent manuscript submission with his students is an analysis of gender differences in individuals who play World of Warcraft online.

During his career at the University of Windsor, Dr. Orr has taught courses about research methods, infancy, early childhood education, child and adolescent development, adult development and aging, parenting, and family, His teaching has been inspired and energized by the increasing cultural diversity on Windsor's campus, particularly because he currently teaches courses on the psychology of the family and the psychology of parenting. The challenge of presenting courses that cross cultural boundaries is ongoing and ever changing. He feels fortunate also that he is able to teach so many students who are the first generation to attend university, particularly since the material is so relevant to their daily lives and the lives of their family members. His goal is to inspire his students enough that they return to their homes and families to talk about and discuss the material they have learned about child development, family systems, and parenting.

What the Students Say:
"With his wealth of knowledge and understanding, Dr. Orr effortlessly incorporates real world examples from local and national news, as well as pop culture references, into his lectures with the goal of encouraging active class discussion."

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Heidi Overhill

2010 | School: Arts, Animation and Design - Sheridan College Trafalgar Campus | Heidi Overhill has been a full-time professor at Sheridan College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning since 2002. Before then, she taught part-time at Carleton University, Humber College, Fanshawe College, Ryerson Polytechnic and the Ontario College of Art and Design while consulting as an exhibition designer for clients such as the National Gallery of Canada, the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Royal Ontario Museum, the National Museum of the Philippines in Manila, and the Shania Twain Museum in Timmons, Ontario.

She holds a Bachelor of Industrial Design from Carleton University, a Certificate in Cultural Studies from the Royal College of Art in London, England, and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Waterloo. She has received funding in the past from Design Canada, and the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), and in 2008 was a member of the team winning the prestigious Gold Award of ISDA (the Industrial Designers' Association of America), for the international anthropometric research project SizeChina. She serves on the advisory board of Regent Park Focus, a non-profit group serving at-risk adolescents in Toronto.

What the Students Say:
"Teaching art history can be a daunting task. Heidi did it with such style, and always gave us lots of fun facts to make it worth coming back every week."

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Aroha Page

2010 | School of Nursing - Nipissing University | Dr Aroha Page is a Public Health Nurse whose diverse career has spanned the desert communities of Western Australia and, as a Royal Flying Doctor Nurse, to a Veteran's Nurse, Deputy-Director of Public Health Nursing and Director Indian Ocean Health Services (Australian External Territories) and Program Director of the BScN/RN at the University of Hong Kong. Aroha is passionate about Transcultural Nursing, Nursing History and the Nursing Informatics.

Aroha was awarded an ANZAC Fellowship and used it to pursue her Master's in Nursing in New Zealand and to serve on National Committees such as the Cervical Cancer Screening. A pioneer in education she helped lead the movement for transferring Nursing education from hospital settings to the universities in Western Australia. Subsequently, she became the inaugural recipient of the Olive Anstey PhD Scholarship which led her to UCSF in the USA. Here she did much research (Breast Cancer, Pain, Institute of Health & Aging. Etc)

Aroha has taught in the USA (Master's of Nursing - SFU) Australia (Edith Cowan University - WA), Hong Kong (University of Hong Kong), and some years in Canada (UNB-Fredericton, University of Windsor). Currently, she is a founding professor of nursing at Nipissing University where she teaches ehealth, Nursing Informatics and many other courses in the BScN program. Aroha has served at the Regional (NEOICN-North Eastern Ontario Infection Control Network- Steering Committee), National (CASN - Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing-Standing Committee for Scholarship & Research) and International level (ICN - International Council of Nursing Remote & Rural Committee).

What the Students Say:
"Truly cares about her students and always makes the lectures fun, exciting. You never want to miss a class."

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Laura Page

2010 | Department of Psychology - Trent University in Oshawa | I am an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Trent University, based at our Oshawa campus. I earned my Ph.D. in Human Development and Education from the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education of the University of Toronto (OISE/UT) in 2008. I have an interdisciplinary academic background, having previously earned my M.A. in English Literature and Creative Writing at the University of Windsor. I try to combine knowledge from all these fields when teaching, with the goal to help students think critically and express their ideas clearly and powerfully.

My dissertation research, supported by a SSHRC fellowship, focused on social and cognitive development during adolescence. I always enjoy telling people that my dissertation was on "thinking and reasoning in teenagers" and hearing their reactions to the topic. I am very interested in processes of belief and identity formation in adolescence, and specifically in the convergence of these two processes, as strong commitments to beliefs may facilitate identity formation, yet may also inhibit open-mindedness and rationality during the belief forming process.

Beyond the stirring world of teenagers, I very much enjoy working with my undergraduate students of all ages. I encourage my students to learn actively by critically evaluating not only the data presented in class, but also their own personal beliefs and biases. I like to remind them that a lecture is a "living, breathing creature", and that their ideas can help build new knowledge. I am also interested in how current educational practices and technologies (such as the ever-pervasive PowerPoint) may influence students dispositions toward critical thinking and favoured styles of epistemic regulation. My teaching, which spans adolescent development, educational psychology, gender development, and social and personality psychology, informs and serves as a catalyst to many of my research ideas.

What the students say:
"She is an amazing professor who has such enthusiasm and passion her students cannot help but love the subjects she teaches. She is also very enthusiastic about student growth and does all she can to help her students succeed."

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Spiros Pagiatakis

2010 | Department of Earth & Space Science & Engineering - York University | Spiros Pagiatakis is Professor and Director of Geomatics Engineering at the Department of Earth and Space Science and Engineering, School of Engineering, at York University in Toronto. He is the President of the Canadian Geophysical Union (CGU) and a licensed Professional Engineer (P.Eng) in Ontario. He received his undergraduate degree in Rural and Surveying Engineering from the National Technical University of Athens in Greece, and an M.Sc.E and a Ph.D in Geodesy and Geodynamics from the University of New Brunswick, in Fredericton.

Spiros has many years of experience as Engineering consultant to European and Canadian consortia, and private industry. From 1993-2001 he worked as a research scientist with the Federal Department of Natural Resources Canada in Ottawa. He held various positions as research scientist, Head of research teams, Chief of Section and A/Director of the Geodetic Survey Division of the Earth Sciences Sector of NRCan before he made his move to academia. He is interested in the dynamics of the Earth, both in global and regional/local scales, as observed by terrestrial and space geodetic techniques. In particular, he is interested in the statistical analyses of time series, the determination of the gravity field of the Earth and the estimation of sea level variations. His research has been funded by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), GEOIDE National Centre of Excellence, Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI), Ontario Innovation Trust (OIT), Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) and York University.

Spiros has taught many courses of diverse content at the undergraduate and graduate level, and he has given invited guest lectures in Canada and abroad. He has supervised undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and visiting scientists. He is member of national and international scientific, professional, and advisory committees and study groups.

What the students say:
"A very unique and understanding style of teaching. Does not let go of the topics unless he knows that each student in the class understands. He has a welcoming demeanour that allows for a close connection and always has an open door. Prof. Pagiatakis strives for each of his students to excel in not only the course work but every aspect of life."

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Jesse Palsetia

2010 | Department of History - University of Guelph |

What the students say:
"I can honestly say, that I worked my term schedule around when his classes were offered. Professor Palsetia had a way to make the time fly in class... His lectures felt like mini-stories, and throughout the whole lecture, you were entranced in w

Best Lecturer Top 10 2010.

Best Lecturer Nominees 2010

Kathryn Adams

Beth Agnew

Laura Allan

James Allard

Guy Allen

Emma Anderson

Louis Anderson.

Tetyana Antimirova

Delia Antonacci

Maria Assif

Paul Attar

Lee Bailey

Sherry Bassin

Johann Bayer

Hilary Becker

Jonathan Beddoes

John Beirness

Alka Bhushan

Jackie Bishop

Anthony Bonato

Judy Bornais

Prosenjit (Jit) Bose

Chris Bovaird

Lydia Boyko

Leah Bradshaw

Rupinder Brar - Finalist

Martin Breaugh

Rob Breton

Mohammed Brihmi

Ian Broom

Francis Broun

Neil Buckley

Marie-Helene Budworth

Frederick Burbach

Robert Burk

John Buschek

Malcolm Byard

Christine Cadieux

Antonio Calcagno

Carol Carruthers

Carla Cesaroni

Paul Chafe

Alfonsina Chang

Frances E. Chapman

Sophie Chrysostomou

Susan Chuang

David Ciavatta

Lorraine Cipparrone

Liz Clarke

Gordon Cleveland

Avi Cohen

Stephen Connor

Gabriele Contessa

Colin Cook

David Copeland

Rory Coughlan

Olivier Courteaux

Brian Cousens

Naomi Couto

Gary Crawford

Zeba Crook

Brad Culver

Philip Cunnington

Gerald Cupchik

Clint Curle

Clare Dale

John Daly

Jeff Dawson

Antoine Deza

Jane Dickson-Gilmore

Christine Doody-Hamilton

Howard A. Doughty

Drew Dowling

Paul Driben

Norman Dubeski

Sangita Dubey

Andrew DuBois

Patrice Dutil