Since its inception in 1975, over 150 DTAs have been awarded to exemplary instructors at the University of Waterloo. The Distinguished Teacher Award (DTA) is awarded to four instructors annually at the March meeting of Senate. Nominations are due the first Friday of February.
The DTA is not limited to faculty members — it's open to all those who teach students at the University of Waterloo. The main criterion of the Distinguished Teacher Award is a record of excellent teaching over an extended period at Waterloo, usually at least five years. Other criteria include:
- evidence of intellectual vigour and communication skills in the interpretation and presentation of subject matter
- evidence of educational impact beyond the classroom
- the instructor’s human quality and concern for and sensitivity to the needs of students
- a clear indication that the nominee has a favourable and lasting influence on students, and, where relevant, on colleagues
Evidence of successful innovation in teaching or publications or presentations on teaching and learning may support a nomination, but it is also clear that excellence in teaching does not necessarily require either.
Nomination Process: Visit our Teaching Excellence Form to support a teaching award nomination.
Recent Recipients
| Year received | Name | Academic Unit |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | Rajinder Pal | Chemical Engineering |
| 2019 | Paul Fieguth | Systems Design Engineering |
| 2018 | Wayne Chang | Conrad School of Entrepreneurship and Business |
| 2017 | Dan Davison | Electrical and Computer Engineering |
| 2017 | Sanjeev Bedi | Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering |
| 2016 | Bob McKillop | Civil and Environmental Engineering |
| 2016 | Mark Pritzker | Chemical Engineering |
| 2015 | Jeff West | Civil and Environmental Engineering |
| 2013 | Duane Cronin | Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering |
| 2009 | Gordon Stubley | Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering |