Winning an award for his teaching came as a complete surprise to Dr. Dave Berry of the department of chemistry. "I was even more surprised at the reaction of people around me. All positive, I hasten to add. It was very heartwarming."
Berry was selected for the UVic alumni association's Excellence in Teaching Award last year. The association is now seeking nominations for the 1999 edition of the awards and the deadline for entries is Nov. 30.
"I realize that it is all very jolly for my ego, but it also makes a great connection with the students," Berry says. "If they think I have a positive reputation, then they are likely to be more receptive. I also believe that you are only as good a teacher as what your last class thinks of you&emdash;it doesn't matter how many awards you have on the wall."
The awards&emdash;up to three are granted each year&emdash;recognize UVic faculty members who demonstrate outstanding commitment to their profession. Other recent winners include Dr. Alison Preece (education), professor Jamie Cassels (law), and Dr. Joan Backus (music).
Photos of award winners are displayed in the main stairway of the McPherson Library. Nominees must be regular faculty members, sessional lecturers, senior instructors or senior laboratory instructors with at least three years of teaching experience at UVic.
Winners are selected based on a number of factors including: knowledge of their subject; level of preparation for teaching sessions; and enthusiasm for their subject and ability to spark interest among students.
Nomination forms are available from the alumni relations office, University House 1.
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