Peter MacIntyre is the first CBU faculty member to receive the award, which recognizes excellence in university teaching over a number of years, primarily at the undergraduate level.
Only one or two awards are given out each year, selected from nominations submitted by universities in the Atlantic region as well as the University of the West Indies.
Nominees must exhibit a commitment to enhancing student engagement and learning, a reflective and intentional approach to teaching practices and dedication to teaching improvement.
“Peter does not actively seek recognition, but he attracts recognition,” David McCorquodale, CBU dean of science and technology, said in a news release. “He is universally respected by his students, because he provides superb courses and keeps the program current, by his colleagues because he works with them to advance CBU programs and by the administration because he takes on leadership roles in the scholarship of teaching.”
In both his online and in-class courses, MacIntyre puts a great deal of thought and planning into enabling students to think and perform like academics and researchers. A large number of MacIntyre’s students have gone on to graduate school and many have published individually or in collaboration with MacIntyre.
“Even though Dr. MacIntyre teaches traditionally challenging courses, student enrolment is generally quite high. From my own experience, I can attest that students greatly appreciate the enthusiasm he brings to every class,” says Rebecca Blackie, a former student of MacIntyre’s and PhD candidate at Wilfrid Laurier University in Waterloo, Ont.
“His presentation of course materials is done in an energetic and creative way that keeps students focused and engaged. His aptitude for ensuring student comprehension creates a truly vibrant learning experience that fosters a deep understanding of often complex and difficult to understand concepts. His availability outside the classroom offers an additional forum for students to further explore challenging concepts.”
“I am humbled by this award," MacIntyre said in the release. "CBU attracts fantastic students who inspire the faculty every day. When I think of my mentors from my days as a student at CBU, and the colleagues who work together now, I feel like I am part of a strong tradition that genuinely values teaching. In a very real sense, this award recognizes the whole university and what it means to be part of the CBU community.”