Supporting and empowering students at Guelph-Humber

Pictured above: Dr. Alice Kim

From going above and beyond the call of duty to creating opportunities for meaningful student engagement, leaders, instructors, and staff help shape the University of Guelph-Humber’s (U of GH) thriving academic community.

Notably, several staff members from U of GH were recognized with Humber Polytechnic President’s Awards in September 2026 for their outstanding achievements and commitment to students’ success.

Humber Polytechnic President and CEO Dr. Ann Marie Vaughan and Humber Polytechnic Board of Governors Chair Scott Allison presented the recipients with their awards. 

Excellence in Teaching Award: Dr. Alice Kim

Psychology Chair Dr. Alice Kim received this award for her student-centred, evidence-informed teaching, Scholarship of Teaching and Learning leadership, and instructional innovation.

She incorporates inclusive teaching practices inside the classroom, during collaborative online international learning (COIL) courses, through student-instructor partnerships, and instructor development initiatives. She has also demonstrated national leadership as editor-in-chief of the Canadian Journal for the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning.

Dr. Kim enriches student learning while strengthening a broader culture of scholarly teaching.

Extra Mile Award: NIBS organizing committee

Ariana Ameree, Dr. Farkhanda Shamim, Dr. Karey Rowe, Samantha Brown, Sara Rumsey, and Urmila Puran were responsible for preparing U of GH to host the 2026 NIBS Worldwide Case Competition – a prestigious, weeklong business case competition. This event welcomed students from universities across North America, South America, Europe, and Asia, and it marked the first time U of GH hosted this event. 

The group’s many months of planning brought forth an experiential learning opportunity for students at the University and beyond, leading to a world-class hands-on global learning experience and the creation of lifelong memories. Their collective effort embodies the values and spirit of this award, showing how exceptional service and collaboration can create a transformative educational experience for students. 

Support Staff Distinguished Service Award: Alexia Hoy

As the Writer, Marketing, Communications and Public Affairs, Alexia has distinguished herself through innovative, human-centric storytelling that showcases what makes U of GH incredible and why its people shine. Through strategic media outreach and collaborative leadership, she fosters connection, belonging, and institutional pride across the University’s community.

Alexia is also committed to student success through creating teachable moments from coaching them on writing for U of GH news to mentoring them on careers in the media industry. Her passion for connection and care for her colleagues’ well-being led her to co-found the staff Writers Guild alongside Erin Alvarez, Manager, Communications and Public Relations – a safe space for creative expression.

She is also the first support staff member from U of GH to receive this category of award.