2015 Tertiary Teaching Excellence Awardees

In 2015, twelve Sustained Excellence Awards were presented to teachers who demonstrated commitment to their subject, expert knowledge, enthusiasm, and the ability to engage and excite learners and help them succeed in their studies.

Associate Professor Suzanne Pitama

Prime Minister’s supreme award recipient 2015

An unstinting dedication to the Māori community and equity in hauora Māori (health).

“I began this journey into teaching because I wanted Māori patients to have an opportunity to be validated as both patients and Māori in health settings.”

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Professor Dale Carnegie

Award for Sustained Excellence in Tertiary Teaching

Helping transform students to be the best they can.

“Caring is at the core of my teaching philosophy. When you care, you prepare your teaching as best you can.”

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Dr Elana Taipapaki Curtis

Award for Sustained Excellence in Tertiary Teaching – Kaupapa Māori category

Making a difference to Māori and showing Māori ability to achieve excellence as normal, valid and legitimate

“As a tertiary educator I believe in aiming for excellence in order to promote the rights of all my learners.”

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Dr Herb de Vries

Award for Sustained Excellence in Tertiary Teaching

Supporting students through their course of study, business projects and careers.

“My students are at the centre of my universe.”

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Paul Gummer

Award for Sustained Excellence in Tertiary Teaching

Preparing work-ready students that understand the principles of success and are recognised here and internationally through awards.

“When people find their passion, I believe doors open for them to achieve excellence.”

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Dr Eleanor Hawe

Award for Sustained Excellence in Tertiary Teaching

Developing a learning partnership lies at the core of Eleanor’s teaching philosophy.

“Teaching can be demanding and challenging, but the rewards for those involved are far-reaching.”

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Clive Humphreys

Award for Sustained Excellence in Tertiary Teaching

A passion for art that is magnetic. Clive’s teaching captivates his classes with knowledge and humour.

“Learning from students is one of the greatest privileges that teaching bestows.”

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Dr Roslyn Kemp

Award for Sustained Excellence in Tertiary Teaching

Ros designed a pathway of learning for her students to follow towards an exciting career.

“I aspire to be a teacher who imparts confidence, creativity and wisdom to the next generation of scientists.”

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Dr Angus Hikairo Macfarlane

Award for Sustained Excellence in Tertiary Teaching – Kaupapa Māori category

A career-long dedication to kaupapa Māori advancement, perspectives, tikanga and reo.

“My approach to leadership has at its goal, the advancement of exemplary tertiary education teaching.”

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Marie McEntee

Award for Sustained Excellence in Tertiary Teaching

Combining science with communication, business and innovation.

“Effective knowledge communication must not only connect with people’s minds, it must also connect with their hearts.”

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Professor Rachel Spronken-Smith

Award for Sustained Excellence in Tertiary Teaching

Leading the way in Inquiry-Based Learning across Aotearoa.

“All my teaching is underpinned by passion, sound pedagogical principles, and a desire to promote innovative and engaging practice.”

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Lara Tookey

Award for Sustained Excellence in Tertiary Teaching

Lara demonstrates a passionate, unwavering dedication to improving student experience.

“All experiences and sources of knowledge are connected and can assist in our self-improvement if we have the wisdom to use them.”

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