“These educators do more than share knowledge; they spark curiosity, inspire confidence, and empower learners to reach their full potential.” - SCS Dean Catherine Chandler-Crichlow
Each year, the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies honours exceptional instructors who exemplify the highest standards of teaching in adult education. The SCS Excellence in Teaching Awards are inspired by nominations from learners who recognize instructors that have gone above and beyond to create engaging, meaningful, and supportive learning experiences.
“These educators do more than share knowledge; they spark curiosity, inspire confidence, and empower learners to reach their full potential,” says SCS Dean Catherine Chandler-Crichlow. “Their unwavering dedication to student success and passion for lifelong learning is truly inspiring. We are proud to recognize and celebrate their remarkable contributions to our community.”
The Excellence in Teaching Award winners for the 2023–2024 academic year are:
Hamideh Bastani-Parizi – Business and Professional Studies
Learners praise Bastani-Parizi for her patience in sharing her wealth of engineering knowledge and her willingness to go above and beyond to help them meet their goals of finding Canadian employment through the successful completion of a Professional Engineering Exam. Their one complaint? They wish they had even more time with her.
Jim Lewis – Business and Professional Studies
Jim Lewis is described by learners as an exceptionally dedicated instructor who creates an engaging and supportive learning environment in his Records & Information Management Strategies classroom. His ability to bring real-life examples into the classroom, drawn from his many years of professional experience, helps learners to bridge the gap between theory and practical application, and his passion for his subject is contagious.
Marcia O’Connor – Business and Professional Studies
Learners say that Marcia O’Connor’s teaching has a profound impact on both their personal and professional growth. While sharing her vast experience in Facilities Management, she takes a kind, caring, and humour-filled approach to teaching, and instills in learners the importance of perseverance, curiosity, and integrity.
Kevin Temple - Arts and Science
Kevin Temple is described as a passionate, knowledgeable, and open-minded instructor by learners in his Philosophy courses. He encourages respectful, lively discussion, and challenges learners to see the deep issues in politics in a way that allows them to understand the news and to participate in civic life more thoughtfully.
Patricia Westerhof – Creative Writing
Learners describe Patricia Westerhof as a kind, positive, and dedicated instructor and mentor with a gift for putting her Creative Writing class participants at ease in what can be a vulnerable space for emerging writers. She fosters a sense of community in her classroom, and challenges learners to step out of their comfort zones to create meaningful work.
Soonae Bac – Languages and Translation
Soonae Bac has an infectious enthusiasm for the Korean language that her learners pick up on immediately. In addition to sharing her impressive knowledge in an engaging manner, they share that she also models integrity, empathy, and respect, creating a classroom atmosphere where learners feel valued and motivated.
Michelle McAdorey – Outstanding New Instructor
With impressive knowledge and experience, Michelle McAdorey leads her Songwriting classes with a style and passion all her own, say learners. She creates a classroom environment that is safe, connective, and brimming with creativity, ensuring her learners feel worthy, respected and eager to share.
Tiziano Vanola – Online Teaching
Tiziano Vanola is described by learners as a patient, humorous and passionate Italian Language instructor. He is engaging, clear, and thorough when explaining concepts and answering questions. Learners who initially had reservations about online learning find that they are progressing faster than they thought possible in his classes.
Shafi Bhuiyan – Career Impact
Learners from Shafi Bhuiyan’s Healthcare classes describe him as a passionate and dedicated instructor who goes above and beyond to help them reach their goals. He is innovative, adaptable, and keeps current with the latest skills and knowledge his learners need to succeed in their careers.
Congratulations to all of this year’s inspiring winners!