Celebrating 30 years of Faculty Recognition Awards
The Students’ Association 2025 Faculty Recognition Awards celebrated nine Algonquin Faculty members who went above and beyond in supporting student success this year.
Published: March 27, 2025
The Faculty Recognition Awards are 30 years old and still going strong.
The annual Students’ Association (SA) awards recognized nine honourees on March 25 — adding to a total of over 200 faculty members who have made a lasting impact on Algonquin College students.
Krista Pearson, Vice President of Student Services, received the Board of Directors Award, an honour presented to a college community member who works with students from all campuses and helps the SA Board of Directors advance their annual priorities.
“She has made it her life’s work to improve the lives of students… she’s someone we should look to as we decide what we want to become,” said Maria Silveira, President, Students’ Association, in presenting the award to Pearson.
Pearson has led Student Services since August 2024 after nearly nine years as Algonquin College’s Registrar. She was a major supporter of the Board’s initiatives this year, including the creation of a Class Representative Town Hall. Her involvement with students goes well beyond her everyday duties; she regularly makes a point of being present at SA events and Varsity games.
“This role has given me such a gift to prioritize time with students,” Pearson said. “Your work and your voices matter.”
Anita Tenasco, Director of Indigenous Initiatives, received the Chris Warburton Award of Excellence, which annually recognizes a community member who has made a significant contribution to student life.
“She firmly believes that Algonquin College takes Indigenization to heart,” said Ben Dinh, General Manager and CEO of the SA, in presenting her award on Tuesday, March 25. “She believes educational institutions can be a place to build relationships, understanding, cultural awareness, and a safe space for healing and Reconciliation.”
Tenasco joined the College in January 2024 after 25 years in the education sector at Kitigan Zibi, the largest Algonquin community in Canada. Her impact has included expanding programming for our Indigenous students and creating new opportunities for the wider community and college partners to meet, engage, and learn about Indigenous Peoples.
“It’s a privilege to share Indigenous culture, history and values… to help build relationships, to promote healing, where possible,” Tenasco said in accepting her award.
Seven Algonquin professors received the Excellence in Teaching Award this year in recognition of the work they do to create an environment that inspires a passion for student success. Below is a short summary from their nomination submissions and students’ introductory speeches:
Andrea McCoy-Naperstkow (Business Agriculture): McCoy-Naperstkow was recognized for fairness, upholding high academic standards, and taking the time to affirm each of her students’ different leadership qualities.
Kunal Parikh (Digital Health): Parikh was acknowledged for embodying the SA’s mission by fostering an engaging and supportive learning environment. He was credited for providing students with detailed feedback and being a great listener.
Mark Ward (Aircraft Maintenance Technician): Ward was credited for inspiring his students to live for their passions and meet their full potential. He ensures students of all backgrounds have access to the same opportunities, and his door is always open to offer support.
Murray Hillier (Respiratory Therapy): Hillier was recognized for his deep industry knowledge and passion for teaching. He’s a master at managing difficult conversations and ensures all his students feel heard and motivated.
Peter Arbour (Forestry Technician): Engaging, humorous, and respectful, Arbour was honoured as a fantastic communicator who maintains a positive atmosphere in his classroom and takes the time to thoroughly answer questions. He invests heavily in his students to help them get the most out of their learning.
Rhonda Mullin (Social Service Worker): Mullin was described as a great teacher who isn’t afraid to try new and creative approaches. Despite her busy schedule, Mullin always finds time to lend an ear to her students, who appreciate her incredible empathy and compassion.
Rim Cherif ep Fehri (Bachelor of Information Technology – Optical Systems and Sensors): Fehri was celebrated as an excellent mentor who guides her students through selecting their co-op placements and helps them explore new ideas. She has an open-door policy and is always ready to discuss ideas, provide support, and offer career advice.