GA/TA Award for Educational Leadership
Recognizes and honours exemplary GAs and TAs who organize, create or otherwise lead initiatives for pedagogical information-sharing, skill-development, or pedagogical innovation, among GA/TAs at the departmental, faculty, or institutional level.
Brennen Siemens, Department of History
Quote from Brennen’s package: “Brennen is a natural leader who consistently demonstrates academic excellence and professionalism...Brennan has greatly contributed to my development as a TA through her exceptional mentorship.”
Ronnie Haidar, Argumentation Studies
"Being honoured with the GA/TA Award for Educational Leadership means a great deal to me personally and professionally. It represents recognition of my commitment to empowering students and fostering a welcoming, inclusive, and inspiring academic community. This award also serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration, guidance, and support. I am deeply grateful to those who have mentored me along the way. Their influence has profoundly shaped how I approach education and continues to inspire my passion for making a positive impact."
Quote from Ronnie’s nomination letter: “Mr. Haidar’s greatest strengths, from our observation, is his ability to build a strong rapport with students and colleagues. Mr. Haidar’s amiability and enthusiasm for teaching and learning immediately commands the esteem of those around him.”
GA/TA Award for Educational Practice
Recognizes and honours exemplary GAs and TAs who contribute to a positive, learning-centred environment at the University, and incorporate practical, transferable skill development into learning experiences.
Mary Strong, Faculty of Nursing
Quote from Mary’s Nomination Package: “Mary Strong represents the very best of what we hope to achieve through the GA/TA program. She enhanced student learning through innovative, scholarly approaches; developed transferable skills in her students; modeled professional excellence; and inspired students to engage meaningfully with challenging material. Her contributions have had lasting impact not only on individual students but on our understanding of effective pedagogical practices in sensitive subject areas.” Nomination letter
Saba Memon, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
“This award means so much to me, it’s a reminder that my efforts to create a positive change truly made a difference. It’s really a reflection of my amazing students. Their passion and positivity made every effort worth it - thank you for inspiring me every step of the way.”
Quote from Saba’s package: “Saba’s kindness, compassion, and understanding are evident in everything she does. She goes out of her way to make sure every student feels supported and valued, creating a warm and welcoming environment where learning can excel. She made it possible for us to stay on track while feeling we could always rely on her”.