The President’s Award for Outstanding Contributions to Teaching and Learning recognizes those who have significantly enhanced the quality of their students’ learning experience through superior innovative teaching methods. It is an award that appreciates and celebrates an educators’ achievements over time.

University President Patrick Deane is pleased to announce this year’s awards recipients — Bruce Wainman, Tom Doyle and Gary Dumbrill. Each has been given the award in recognition of their many contributions to the McMaster teaching and learning community.

“The nominations for this Award were of exceptional quality. I am delighted to be able to recognize the achievements of three extremely gifted and dedicated teachers, all of whom have incorporated new and innovative pedagogical techniques into their classrooms, and enhanced the overall learning experience for their students,” says Deane.

Bruce Wainman is an associate professor in the Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine, and director of the Education Program in Anatomy. He developed an interprofessional education anatomy course that brings together a variety of students in different Health Sciences professional programs, as well as students from other faculties. Of particular note is his effort in helping to design the Anatomy Learning Commons — an appealing learning environment that enhances the student experience by allowing them to engage with and learn from each other. Wainman is applauded for his overall excellence in teaching, his national recognition for innovative interprofessional teaching methods and his multiple innovations to serve the needs of students.

Tom Doyle is an associate professor in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. His pedagogical philosophy led him to pursue a project-based idea that integrates theory and practice across the curriculum from a first year Cornerstone project to a final year Capstone project. He wanted to encourage students to not only produce theoretical designs, but also apply and see function. Doyle used his own skills to introduce computer simulation software to his design students so they could visualize their theoretical model (MapleSIM). Doyle has demonstrated many creative development tools to aid teaching needs, and has made many contributions to the advancement of teaching and learning on campus.

Gary Dumbrill is an associate professor in the School of Social Work. He encourages students to see how academic knowledge will help them to make sense of events in the so-called “outside world.” Through teaching and research, he has formed collaborations with Six Nations so that Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal students can learn together in a safe and supportive environment. Working as an educator and mentor for both graduate and undergraduate students, he engages students with their feelings, helping them to become aware of the emotional aspects of the practice of social work. Dumbrill exemplifies the integration of research, teaching and community involvement that is highly valued at McMaster.