Environment professor honoured with Distinguished Teacher Award
Dr. Brent Doberstein in the Department of Geography and Environmental Management has been honoured with the Distinguished Teacher Award.
Nominations for the award are based on submissions from students and colleagues in recognition of excelling at teaching. Each year the University of Waterloo selects up to four recipients who demonstrate educational impact beyond the classroom, inclusive teaching and supportive relationships, lasting influence and stimulating interest in course materials.
Dr. Doberstein is known for his engaging, approachable and deeply impactful teaching. His research interests lie in the general field of resource and environmental management in developing countries. Within this broad theme, his interests include hazards and disaster risk reduction, post-disaster reconstruction, climate change adaptation, managed retreat, institutional capacity building and parks and protected areas.
His passion for these subjects and genuine connection with students create a welcoming environment that inspires curiosity and long-term academic growth. As one student shared, "what truly distinguishes Dr. Doberstein from other profs is his kindness, approachability and dedication. As an instructor, his lectures are always engaging, easy to understand, and insightful. His down-to-earth nature creates a comforting environment where students are at ease asking questions and excited to attend class.”
Dr. Doberstein hopes to spark curiosity, illustrating the tangible impact of geography. Case-based learning further enhances this approach, allowing students to explore the complexities of environmental and societal issues, and to contrast theory with reality.
“I find these methods make learning engaging while also providing students with a global perspective, fostering cross-cultural empathy and global citizenship,” he says.
Dr. Doberstein continues to make a lasting impact in the Faculty. He has taught nearly 12,000 students in courses like the recent GEMCC622: Climate Change, Natural Hazards, and Disaster Risk Reduction, and has a special passion for international field courses like the GEOG 430C/GEOG692 in 2023, also known as “the Bali field course.” He currently supervises 4 Masters students and 4 PhD students.
Dr. Doberstein and his 2023 GEOG430c/GEOG692 field course students.
Dr. Doberstein and his 2023 GEOG430c/GEOG692 field course students.
Dr. Doberstein and his 2023 GEOG430c/GEOG692 field course students.
Dr. Doberstein and his students from GEMCC622: Climate Change, Natural Hazards, and Disaster Risk Reduction.
Overall, his influence has made a lasting impact for countless Environment community members. As one colleague said: “I have lost count of the number of students who have told me that they have pursued a minor, or transferred into our programs because of Brent’s teaching, his passion for the topic, and his ability to connect with students. It has inspired their interest in the discipline.”
Thank you, Dr. Doberstein, for your unwavering passion and dedication to helping students feel a true sense of belonging while empowering them to succeed and grow. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!
