On April 5, the Niagara College Administrative Council (NCSAC) awarded William Boehlen, a full-time professor in the School of Media Studies, Christine Wilkinson, a full-time professor in the School of Community Services and Ashley Potts, a part-time educator in the School of Allied Health the title of Niagara College’s 2022-2023 Educators of the Year.
Since 2004, NCSAC has been handing out the Educator of the Year award to exemplary educators who’ve positively changed, impacted or contributed to the success of their students.
Wilkinson, who teaches in NC’s Recreation Therapy program was praised by nominators for her dedication to her students and the overall student experience.
“Christine is someone who truly makes me look forward to her classes every week,” said one nominator.
“She goes above and beyond to ensure students have the best educational experience possible through the many curriculum-integrated opportunities she has spearheaded and/or created for us that truly make the program unique. This includes NC-TRAC, the DementiAbility methods certificate, and the Niagara College Dementia Experience.”
Students in the College’s Broadcasting – Radio, Television and Film Program had this to say about long-time NC professor William (Bill) Boehlen.
“Bill takes the time to create a relationship with every student he connects with and is always enthusiastic. Broadcasting is truly blessed to have a professor like Bill who is kind, understanding, professional and friendly.”
Part-time faculty member Ashley Potts was recognized as someone who works hard to mentor students in the Paramedic Program by engaging with them in meaningful and respectful ways.
“Ashley is an intelligent, kind, and caring individual, which makes it an absolute no brainer to nominate her for the EOTY award,” wrote one nominator. “The importance of professors, and the impact they make on students cannot be understated, and Ashley is a prime example of a professor having a positive impact on their students and helping us succeed.”
This year, NCSAC received more than 135 submissions from students who were eager to recognize NC educators who have made a positive impact during their time at NC.
The award celebration was held in person for the first time since 2019 and also honoured previous Educator of the Year award winners who attended virtual ceremonies during the COVID-19 pandemic including:
2019-2020 Educators of the Year
- Neil Walker (full-time faculty)
- Susan Ehlert (part-time faculty)
2020-2021 Educators of the Year
- Patrick Robson (full-time faculty)
- Melissa Galicia (part-time faculty)
2021-2022 Educators of the Year
- Marsha Baddeley (full-time faculty)
- Jeffery Ko (part-time faculty)
