Four faculty members and one graduate student are recognized with the 2020-2021 Killam Awards for their outstanding teaching, research and service to the community. As one of six Killam institutions, UBC offers yearly awards from the Killam Endowment Fund to faculty and teaching assistants.
Killam Graduate Teaching Assistant Award
UBC annually awards teaching prizes to UBC teaching assistants in recognition of the valuable role that they play in undergraduate programs.
Natasha Orr, Graduate Student, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology
“I would not be where I am today without the support and encouragement from my mentors. I am honoured to receive this award that recognizes the significant contribution I have made to undergraduate and medical education. This award is a milestone on my journey to learn and grow as a teacher, as well as to inspire students like my mentors did for me!”
Killam Teaching Prize
The Killam Teaching Prize is awarded annually to faculty nominated by students, colleagues and alumni in recognition of excellence in teaching.
Michael Cox, Associate Professor, Department of Urologic Sciences
“It is a real honour to be a Killam Prize recipient. I am privileged to be able to pursue my career ambition of mentoring in such a prestigious environment at the Faculty of Medicine. First and foremost, I thank all the bright minds I’ve been able to touch. Their eagerness to learn and set out on their own careers is my inspiration. I also thank my peers who were willing and able to make this application successful. I am truly touched to know that so many think so highly of my commitment as an educator. It was what I intended to do when I went away to college, oh so many years ago.”
Hugh Davies, Associate Professor, School of Population and Public Health
“This is a very special award for me. It’s very gratifying to be recognized by one’s students and peers and without doubt this is one of the highlights of my career. I have always loved to teach; I strive to motivate students through a passion for occupational health to help make them life-long learners.”
Michael Lee, Associate Professor, Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy
“To me, this award is a recognition of my teaching philosophy. I believe that one of the ultimate goals for a healthcare educator is to transform a student into a skilled clinician with a heart for fostering recovery. The adjudication panel’s decision affirms to me that this belief is true and has made a positive impact on my graduates’ practice as competent and caring therapists.”
Olusegun Oyedele, Associate Professor, Department of Cellular & Physiological Sciences (Southern Medical Program)
This award is a huge validation of my sustained contribution to UBC as a teacher, educational leader and scholar. To be recognized for this prize by peers, who themselves are among the best university educators in Canada and internationally, is deeply humbling and gratifying. I hope to continue to do my utmost every day, to be worthy of this outstanding honour.