Brock student excellence

Valerie Michaelson, Associate Professor, Health Sciences

Kate Cassidy, Communications, Pop Culture, and Film

Martin Dragan, Health Sciences

Bruna Fernandes, Department of Nursing

Shawna Hopper, Health Sciences

Megan Magier, Health Sciences

Brock University Award for Excellence in Teaching for Early Career Faculty

This award recognizes the contributions to teaching undertaken by a new faculty member who is in the first five years of a tenure-track position. Valerie Michaelson, Health Sciences: “Passion and compassion.” This is how Michaelson’s teaching is described by her students, colleagues and the community. Her depth of commitment and activities related to teaching and learning at Brock are exemplary and demonstrate a true passion for education and inspiring change.

Clarke Thomson Award for Excellence in Sessional Teaching

This award recognizes the contributions of a part-time/sessional teaching staff member who contributes significantly to student learning at Brock University. Kate Cassidy, Communications, Pop Culture, and Film: Cassidy is described as a scholar and an instructor who has given a great deal of attention to supporting, stretching and promoting memorable learning experiences. Students and alumni consistently remark at the attention and support they have received from Cassidy as they explore and embark upon their careers.

Don Ursino Award for Excellence in the Teaching of Large Classes

Martin Dragan, Health Sciences: As the instructor of the Introduction to Health Sciences Course and Senior Lab Demonstrator of the Human Systems Anatomy course, thousands of students have the pleasure of learning from Martin early in their academic careers each year. Martin’s passion and commitment for making learning personal, interactive and engaging makes these classes less intimidating and enjoyable.

Teaching Assistant Awards 2021-22

TA Award

Bruna Fernandes, Department of Nursing: Fernandes has demonstrated a commitment to the feedback process and professional learning. For Fernandes, “Teaching is a great responsibility and I take it seriously.” Shawna Hopper, Health Sciences: Hopper has worked to create a teaching and learning environment that is supportive, productive, challenging and welcoming. For Hopper, building such an environment acknowledges “learning is a lifelong process.”

Graduate TA Award

Megan Magier, Health Sciences: Magier demonstrates a commitment to creating an equitable and accessible teaching and learning environment for her students. She wants her students to know they are in a safe, equitable space where they are respected and can thrive.

Novice TA Award

Sara McCowell, Department of Educational Studies: McCowell has demonstrated a strong commitment to her students in her practice and through her professional development. She strives “to establish a positive rapport with my students to create a safe and supportive classroom to support their learning needs.”