Teaching and learning specialist receives national recognition

Durham College is proud to announce that Ruth Rodgers, a professor with the School of Interdisciplinary Studies & Employment Services and a teaching and learning specialist with the college’s Centre for Academic and Faculty Enrichment, has been named the recipient of the inaugural College Sector Educators Award by the Society for Teaching and Learning in Higher Education (STLHE) for her outstanding work in college teaching and peer leadership. 

 “On behalf of the entire Durham College community I extend my sincere congratulations to Ruth on this outstanding accomplishment,” said Judy Robinson, vice-president, Academic. “This national recognition is a direct reflection of her passion and dedication to teaching excellence and innovative curriculum delivery.  We are extremely proud of the work she has done to support the professional development of our faculty, helping us to ensure our students have the best possible learning experience.”

The STLHE College Sector Educators Award recognizes Canadian educators who have made quality efforts to promote and support the development of their peers in teaching excellence in addition to providing exceptional leadership regionally, provincially, nationally and internationally in the field of teaching and learning.

“As I near retirement, I find myself more focused on legacy issues at the local, provincial and national levels,” said Rodgers. “If I can leave behind people, processes and products that will contribute to the future of the Canadian college system and its role in higher education, I will feel that I have achieved my personal and professional goals.”

Rodgers joined the Durham College team as a teaching and learning specialist in 2008 with more than 30 years of experience in higher education.

She will officially be honoured with her award at the annual STLHE conference on Thursday, June 21 in Montreal, Que.

“The chance to share resources and opportunities with my peers is the aspect that brings me the most satisfaction so it is a tremendous honour to receive this prestigious award for my contribution to faculty development,” added Rodgers.

Comprised of faculty and teaching and learning resource professional members from post-secondary institutions, STLHE strives to be the pre-eminent national voice and a world leader for enhancing teaching and learning in higher education. It supports research and its dissemination and increased awareness and application of research through scholarly teaching and learning.