Ian Greene Award for Teaching Excellence

A student-run award recognizing outstanding teachers in the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies at York University.

⬇️ 2024 award recipients ⬇️

Natalie Neill, Professor
Department of English

Dr. Neill with Dr. Ian Greene, the award's namesake, at a celebratory BBQ.

RationaleDr. Neill was recognized for her ability to deliver engaging lecture content, her care and respect for her students, and her commitment to making sure students have their voices heard.Student TestimonialsDr. Neill's nominator described her as "the most compassionate professor whom evidently cares about her students' success." She strives to "always ensure everybody’s voice is heard," which made students truly "want to participate in her classes."

Hiba Ibrahim, Teaching Assistant
Writing Department

Ms. Ibhrahim and Dr. Greene, speaking via Zoom at the BBQ.

RationaleMs. Ibrahim was recognized for her innovative and academically-supportive method of leading tutorials, as well as her personable and approachable nature.Student TestimonialsMs. Ibrahim's nominator wrote that “Hiba set up our classroom in a way that made you want to participate and share your ideas and also allowed you to learn from your peers.” Her students express that it is clear that she cares for "both our academic progress and wellbeing."

About the Award

The Ian Greene Award for Teaching Excellence is an annual merit-based award given to one professor and one teaching assistant (TA) in the Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (LA&PS). The award recognizes and rewards academic staff who have demonstrated excellent ability in teaching and supporting their students.The award is managed entirely by students, from the nomination process to selecting the recipients. This ensures that the student perspective is always considered and the selected teachers are truly the best – in the eyes of their students.The award was created in 2007 and named after Ian Greene, a professor emeritus (retired) in the School of Public Policy and Administration. The award was created by his former students in recognition of his outstanding drive and effort to teach and make learning a unique experience. It is overseen and presented by the Student Council of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies (SCOLAPS.)