Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) instructor, Dr. Valérie Vézina, has been awarded the 2024 Canadian Political Science Association (CPSA) Prize for Teaching Excellence.
Vézina has been a political science instructor at KPU since 2018.
Reflecting on her favourite part about teaching, Vézina says “It’s really fun to witness the change that occurs through a semester — from having little to no knowledge, to being able to have a conversation and use the language of political science. That’s the most rewarding thing.”
The Canadian Political Science Association awards the prize annually to recognize the contributions of political scientists to excellence in teaching and student learning.
To be considered for the award, students and colleagues must submit letters on behalf of the instructor.
“There’s a jury of colleagues across the country who thought I was worthy enough to receive this award, so this is a tremendous honour,” says Vézina. “I was really emotional receiving this prize I have to say.”
Vézina accepted the award in Montreal in June during the 2024 Canadian Political Science Association conference at McGill University. She believes such recognition is important for acknowledging the efforts of instructors and is already considering nominees for next year.