Susan Vajoczki appointed acting director of the Centre for Leadership in Learning

Susan Vajoczki has been appointed acting director of the Centre for Leadership in Learning (CLL), effective May 1, 2009.

Vajoczki received her Ph.D. in Geography from Wilfrid Laurier University where she examined best teaching practices and teaching evaluation processes in Canadian university geography departments. She is currently an associate professor in the School of Geography and Earth Sciences and is the director for experiential education in the Faculty of Social Sciences.

The CLL has a mandate to support the teaching community in the scholarly exploration, implementation, evaluation and dissemination of teaching and learning practices.

"We are delighted that Dr. Vajoczki has agreed to lead the CLL," says Peter Smith, associate vice-president (academic). "She is highly respected both within McMaster and across Canada for her dedication to students and to improving their learning experience."

Vajoczki takes over the leadership of the CLL at an important time for the centre. It recently underwent an external review that recommended integrating more fully the activities of the Learning Technologies Research Centre and adopting a more decentralized approach to supporting faculty members and teaching assistants.

"McMaster University has a long tradition of excellence in education and the CLL is recognized as a leading teaching and learning centre in the country. I am excited about the opportunity to work with CLL staff, including those in LTRC, and collaborate with instructors, departments and Faculties across the campus to enhance student learning using best practices" says Vajoczki.

Vajoczki will remain as acting director until the search for a new director is concluded.