Innovative. Passionate. Creative. Three words to describe three outstanding professors.

Anne Herring and Alan Neville, as well as Joseph Kim and his development team in the Science Media Lab, have been given President's Awards in recognition of their many contributions to the McMaster community.

Ann Herring, professor of anthropology, was given the Award for Excellence in Instruction. A leading innovator in the field of education, Herring's effectiveness as a creative instructor is evident in the high enrolment rates for her courses. Several of her students have won prestigious research awards and many have gone on to successful careers in anthropology, archaeology, public health and medicine.

Alan Neville, outgoing assistant dean of the Undergraduate Medical Program and professor of oncology, was given the Award for Excellence in Educational Leadership in recognition of his outstanding contributions to education as well as his influence in medical education at the local, provincial, national and international levels.

“Receiving the award is a nice way to end my 13 years with the Undergraduate MD Program,” said Neville. “Some of my most rewarding experiences at McMaster have been working to develop collaborations, but most importantly, I strive to inspire my students through clinical skills. I hope this award reflects that goal.”

Joseph Kim, assistant professor of psychology, neuroscience & behaviour, spearheaded a team that received the Award for Excellence in Course or Resource Design. The group, which included Chris McAllister, Greg Atkinson, Matt Pachai and Eric Durrant, redesigned the introductory psychology courses to develop and implement an engaging, student-centric and empirically researched model. The award recognizes the team's efforts in creating a blended learning model that integrates learning technology, small group tutorials and traditional lectures.

“It's a learning model that combines web modules, small-group tutorials and traditional lectures,” said Kim. “It allows the students a better educational experience because they have more flexibility and more interaction. I think it's the future of university education, as it challenges the university to rethink the classroom. It's a real paradigm shift.”

The professors were recognized during convocation ceremonies earlier in the month.