UNIVERSITY CANADA WEST
Teaching & Learning Excellence Awards honour outstanding faculty

Dr. Noosha Mehdian has received University Canada West's Leadership in Teaching & Learning Award and Dr. Amit Kohli was presented with the Sustained Excellence in Teaching & Learning Award.

Both professors were honoured at UCW's Spring 2024 Convocation held May 28-31 at Queen Elizabeth Theatre.

UCW established the Teaching and Learning Excellence Awards to recognize outstanding faculty and staff.

Highly regarded by the UCW Community, Dr. Mehdian is recognized for her initiative and steadfast commitment to academic excellence and student success. She is Assistant Professor and Vice-Chair at UCW's Department of Arts, Social Sciences and Communication. Before joining UCW, she taught at UBC Vantage College, UBC Continuing Studies and Alexander College.

With expertise in English and education, Dr. Mehdian has significantly enhanced student experiences by improving assessment practices, innovating in green education and media literacy, as well as promoting the integration of artificial intelligence and related research.

"Her impact is far-reaching," said Dr. Stephanie Chu, UCW's Associate Vice President, Teaching, Learning and Scholarship. "Dr. Mehdian has led and supported colleagues in successful program reviews, facilitated the hiring of the very best staff, and driven improvements in operations and faculty practices.

"Her advocacy extends to critical areas such as the environment, sustainability and responsible citizenship, all while maintaining a steadfast commitment to quality education and professional growth within our community. Personally, I have witnessed Dr. Mehdian's passion, openness to feedback, self-reflection and commitment to personal growth."

In her Convocation address, Dr. Mehdian urged graduates to embrace critical thinking and empathy as their compass moving forward.

"In an age of information overload and echo chambers, critical thinking has never been more essential. Question assumptions, challenge conventional wisdom, and approach every problem with an open mind and a healthy dose of skepticism," she said.

She added, "empathy is a superpower that can change lives and shape destinies."

Dr. Kohli is an Associate Professor in the Department of Marketing, Strategy and Entrepreneurship with more than 20 years of teaching experience. Before joining UCW, he was a researcher at the University of Arizona and received the Best Teacher Award for academic achievement and meritorious teaching from the Indian Society for Technical Education (ISTE).

Dr. Kohli has published extensively on a variety of topics including biomedical engineering, renewable hybrid power systems, materials engineering and, more recently, blockchain technology while collaborating with students and colleagues.

Dedicated to student-centred learning, Dr. Kohli aims to equip students with the essential knowledge, skills and certifications required by the industry. His dedication is evident through his numerous nominations for teaching excellence by former students and peers.

"Students have praised Dr. Kohli for his ability to inspire them with his life experiences, providing guidance and mentorship both in and out of the classroom," said Dr. Chu. "They have noted his genuine concern for their professional and academic growth.

"His peers highlight how he has empowered students to excel academically and pursue their career aspirations."

Beyond the classroom, Dr. Kohli's mentorship has led to student publications and successful job placements. As an active member of the UCW Community, he has served on various committees, including as the former Interim Chair of UCW's Research Ethics Board, and has participated in external panels. Committed to continuous professional development, Dr. Kohli recently completed micro-credentials in instructional design and AI.

"As I reflect on this achievement, I am reminded of the profound impact that educators can have on the lives of their students," Dr. Kohli told graduates in his address. "It is not simply about imparting knowledge but also about fostering a love for learning, encouraging critical thinking and empowering students to reach their full potential "

"Embrace curiosity, embrace resilience and above all, embrace the power of education to transform not only your own lives but the world around you."