A huge congratulations to all winners and nominees at the 2023 Learning and Teaching Awards!
We are delighted to have welcomed back the annual Learning and Teaching Awards to celebrate of all our staff teams and academics, who work so hard each and every day to inspire excellence in enhancing the student experience at Ulster University.
The LTAs highlight innovation and exceptional efforts in teaching, learning and the student experience. Being student-led from the nominations to decision-making panels, these awards truly highlight those experiences and contributions that have been valued by students.
The awards were presented by VP Education Rebecca Allen and Faculty Rep, Life & Health Sciences, Lauren Caughey. Our presenters were fantastic keeping us hooked from start to finish!
This year we received over 380 nominations across 11 categories. Our wonderful student led shortlisting panel had the difficult job of naorrowing these down. Below are your Learning and Teaching Awards 2023 winners...
EXCELLENCE IN SUPPORT OF STUDENT AMBITION
DR FRANK FERGUSON, School of Arts & Humanities
What our students’ have said...
“Crucially, Frank’s scope for his students extends far beyond the lecture theatre, in embedding employability support into the curriculum. My student experience - and, by extension, the English faculty at Ulster University - would not be the same without the expertise and guidance which Frank tirelessly offers each and every day.
STAFF TEAM OF THE YEAR
BSC (HONS) SPORTS PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND HEALTH
What our students’ have said...
“I was told numerous times, that lecturers wouldn’t be as hands on as previous levels of study, but I have found the opposite to be true of our lecturers. They are invested in our learning outcomes, their attention to detail and feedback has enabled me to maintain high marks throughout my degree, any issues I’ve had, they have been able to accommodate.”
PHD RESEARCHER SUPERVISOR OF THE YEAR
DR GABRIEL GUARINO, Arts, Humanities & Social Sciences
What our students’ have said...
“Without Gabriel’s guidance, expertise and knowledge, both linguistically and historically, I would not be where I am today. The whole experience working with Gabriel has been a joy and inspiration throughout. I feel like I learn something new every time we have a discussion and the fact that Gabriel’s own work is so similar to my own has allowed us to feed off of each other’s enthusiasm and energy.”
OUTSTANDING CONTRIBUTION TO STUDENT LIFE (NON-TEACHING)
CARAGH MCCLOSKEY, School of Arts & Humanities
What our students’ have said...
“Caragh has played an integral role in advocating for our LGBTQ+ students on the course. They offered to become our point of contact for trans students wishing to change their name on the university system and has championed our trans students developing a list of the practical steps to be taken within college admin; while providing info to our trans students about support services; gender neutral toilets; and so on.”
STUDENT ACADEMIC REP OF THE YEAR
JODIE PEDEN, Department of Hospitality & Tourism Management
What our students’ have said...
“Jodie is a shining example of what a dedicated and compassionate course representative should be. She has been an invaluable resource for us, especially for those of us who are new to Northern Ireland. Her resilience and unwavering commitment to her role have been truly inspiring. She is a remarkable individual who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to her role and has made a significant impact on the lives of her fellow students.”
EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR, FACULTY OF ARTS, HUMANITIES & SOCIAL SCIENCES
KERRY-ANN PORTER, School of Communication & Media
What our students’ have said...
“Kerry-Ann is, without a doubt, one of the best lecturers at Ulster University. Her dedication to her students is unparalleled, and her teaching style is both engaging and effective. Having interacted with her on multiple occasions, I can attest to her exceptional qualities and how she has positively impacted my academic journey.”
EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR, FACULTY OF COMPUTING, ENGINEERING AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
DR JAMES UHOMOIBHI, School of Engineering
What our students’ have said...
“Dr. James believes in delivering interactive lectures to his students. He believes that lectures should not be one-way communications where the teacher speaks, and the students just listen. Instead, he emphasizes the importance of engaging students in the learning process through interactive discussions, activities, and questions. Interactive lectures help to create an environment where students are active participants in their learning experience.”
EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR FACULTY OF LIFE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
DR PAUL MCKENZIE, School of Geography & Environmental Sciences
What our students’ have said...
“I still say to this day that Paul’s teaching was some of the best I ever came across. I think I’ve met one of those real gems in the teaching world who just has such a love for educating that he will do whatever it takes for you to learn. I can’t think of anyone better who deserves this award, I’ve honestly never come across a more deserving educator in my entire life of learning.”
EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR ULSTER UNIVERSITY BUSINESS SCHOOL
RUTH MERCER, Business Engagement Unit
What our students’ have said...
“Ruth has a real knack of being able to make you excited about tackling a new learning subject that is likely to push you out of your comfort zone. Of all the very good tutors that we have had, she stands out in being able to empathise and still challenge us which ensures that we maximise the learning opportunities that we are encountering.”
EDUCATOR OF THE YEAR, PHD DEMONSTRATOR
SHONA KAYA, School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences
What our students’ have said...
“Shona is not only a great researcher but can translate her expertise across to students in a digestible manner. Through her infectious enthusiasm and approachable nature, she naturally encourages students to engage during practical demonstrations. I believe that none of the other nominees could rival her dedication, passion and enthusiasm. All these qualities which could be considered the cornerstone of an excellent educator.”
INSPIRATIONAL AWARD
DR CLAIRE MCCAULEY, School of Nursing & Paramedic Science
What our students’ have said...
“Claire has been instrumental in the development of the first pharmacology module to be taught to paramedic students in Northern Ireland. She has committed a huge amount of time and effort into creating a bespoke, up to date module. Claire made a difficult subject enjoyable, engaging and relevant and her teachings will have a lasting impact on mine and many other students future practice!”
A huge congratulations to all of our winners, you have made outstanding impact in your work that will stay with students throughout their personal and professional journey.
UUSU would like to extend a big thank you to our Student Shortlisting panel. With over 380 submissions across categories this was no easy task.
Thank you Ciaran Chaney, K M Hasan Imam Shuvo, Jack Powell, Joseph Adidela, Niall Petticrew, Finola Quigg, Rebecca Allen and Ethan Davies.
