Bishop's University has launched a new annual tradition recognizing members of its community who have received special distinctions and awards. The celebration honours exceptional contributions to teaching, research, service, and community engagement.
Dr. Ross Osmun, Dr. Sébastien Lebel-Grenier, Dr. Jack Eby
The inaugural event highlighted achievements that reflect the aspirations of Bishop's University's 2025-2029 Strategic Plan, including excellence in teaching and research, interdisciplinary collaboration, innovation, and community impact.
Among the distinctions presented was the Distinguished Professor Emeritus Award, conferred on a retired professor who has served at least 20 years at Bishop's and demonstrated outstanding contributions to teaching, research, or academic administration.
This year's recipient was Dr. Jack Eby, musicologist, researcher and author. The award was presented by Dr. Ross Osmun, professor of Music.
"Dr. Jack Eby's remarkable career exemplifies the very best of Bishop's University," said Sébastien Lebel-Grenier, Principal and Vice-Chancellor. "His outstanding contributions as a scholar, educator, and champion of the arts reflect the values of excellence, creativity, and community that define our institution."
The University also recognized two professors who were granted the designation of Professor Emeritus:
- Professor Lin Jensen, Department of Computer Science, following 42 years of service;
- Professor George Rideout, Department of Drama, following 38 years of service.
Faculty Merit Awards
Vice-Principal Academic and Research Dr. Kerry Hull presented the Faculty Merit Awards.
The 2026 recipients are:
- Dr. Valerio Faraoni, Dean of the Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics and Associate Vice-Principal Research and Graduate Studies;
- Dr. Jade Savage, Professor in the Department of Biology and Biochemistry.
"The Faculty Merit Award recipients exemplify the excellence in teaching, scholarship, and service that lies at the heart of Bishop's mission," said Hull. "Through their research leadership and commitment to student success, they help advance a learning environment where research, creativity, and collaboration across disciplines flourish."
Contract Faculty Teaching Awards
Dr. Julie Desjardins, Dean of the School of Education and member of the Contract Faculty Evaluation Committee, presented the Contract Faculty Teaching Awards, recognizing excellence in instruction among contract faculty members.
This year's recipients are:
- Stéphanie Côté, Williams School of Business;
- Katharine Dunbar Wilson, Faculty of Social Sciences;
- Micheline Durocher, Faculty of Humanities;
- David Hopps, School of Education;
- Miyazaki Masako, Faculty of Humanities;
- Marina Rousseau, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.
"Our contract faculty members play a vital role in the student experience and academic success of our institution," said Desjardins. "These award recipients have demonstrated exceptional dedication to teaching, student engagement, and learning excellence. Their passion makes a meaningful difference in the lives of our students every day."
New Awards Coming in 2027
During the event, Principal Lebel-Grenier also announced three new awards to be introduced next year:
- Innovation Award, recognizing transformative contributions by faculty, librarians, staff, and administrators;
- Interdisciplinary Research Award, recognizing excellence in cross-disciplinary research and collaboration;
- Community Impact Prize, recognizing individuals or teams whose work has had a significant impact beyond academia.
"The accomplishments we celebrate embody the aspirations at the heart of our Strategic Plan: a pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, innovation, leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration; a strong sense of connection that enriches our multidisciplinary education, strengthens community engagement, and fosters a vibrant campus experience; and a commitment to creating opportunities that empower our students to thrive, build meaningful relationships, and become the leaders and innovators of tomorrow."
