APRIL 21, 2016 – Dr. Joël Dickinson, Associate Professor in the Psychology Department and Dr. Shelley Lynn Watson, Associate Professor in the Psychology Department were honoured by Laurentian University with the 2015-2016 Teaching Excellence Award.
The annual award recognizes exceptional teaching performance by full-time faculty members and nominations must be supported by students, peers, alumni and other members of the university community.
“I am gratified by the accolades of the students, alumni, peers and colleagues within the university, it is truly an honour to receive this award,” said Dr. Dickinson. “I am fortunate to have the opportunity to work with amazing students and colleagues and I appreciate my time in the classroom immeasurably.”
A member of the Cognitive Health Research Laboratory, Dr. Dickinson joined Laurentian University in 2007 as an Assistant Professor in the Psychology Department. She is a graduate of the University of New Brunswick, where she completed her B.A in Psychology, and her M.A and Ph.D. in Psychology. Dr. Dickinson’s impact on the Laurentian community goes beyond just the classroom, currently a member of the Safe Space Training, Teaching & Learning Committee, Chair in Psychology, Academic Planning Committee (ACAPLAN) and Co-Chair on the Committee for Sexual and Gender Diversity meeting. Her recent research on mental shortcuts was featured on CBC’s radio program, “Summer U”.
"I consider teaching to be the most important part of my job, whether in first year or at the Master's level," said Dr. Watson. "I am thankful for the opportunity to supervise so many fantastic emerging researchers, at both the undergraduate and graduate level. Mentoring involves not only data analysis, public speaking, and publications, but also dealing with work-life balance, handling rejection, and celebrating achievements."
An Associate Professor in the Psychology Department, Dr. Watson has been with Laurentian University since 2007. She earned her B.A. (Hons.) in Child Studies & Psychology and M.Ed. at Brock University and her Ph.D. in Educational Psychology from the University of Alberta. Dr. Watson plays an integral role within the Laurentian community, as she is currently the chair of the Ontario Association on Developmental Disabilities (OADD) Research Special Interest Group (RISG), Coordinator of the Masters in Interdisciplinary Health and an associate member of Rural and Northern Health Ph.D.
“It is a pleasure to present Dr. Joël Dickinson and Dr. Shelley Watson with the 2015-2016 Teaching Excellence Award,” said Dr. Denis Hurtubise, Associate Vice-President, Academic and Francophone Affairs. “Dr. Watson and Dr. Dickinson are true leaders both in and outside of the classroom with their passion, which has had a remarkable impact on their students.”