Faculty Recognition Awards Celebrate Lasting Impact on Students
The Faculty Recognition Awards recognize those who live out the mission of the Algonquin Students’ Association (SA): to create an environment that inspires a passion for student success.
Published: March 23, 2026
The Faculty Recognition Awards recognize those who live out the mission of the Algonquin Students’ Association (SA): to create an environment that inspires a passion for student success.
This year, the annual SA awards recognized 10 honourees — continuing a 31-year tradition of honouring Algonquin College faculty and staff who have supported students and made a lasting impact.
The Board of Directors Award is presented to a college community member who works with students from all campuses and helps the SA Board of Directors advance their annual priorities. This year, the SA Board recognized two recipients: Maggie Cusson, Dean — Academic Development, and Laine Johnson, Councillor, College Ward.
“Margaret Cusson is a leader in our college community who consistently lives by Algonquin College’s values of caring, learning, integrity and respect,” says Vanshika Sharma, President, Students’ Association (SA). “She has provided leadership in key areas like program and curriculum development. Maggie’s emphasis on relationship-building, partnership, and collaboration has helped create a closer connection between the College, the SA and our student body.”
Johnson was recognized for being an unwavering advocate for students. “Councillor Laine Johnson exemplifies what it means to lead with purpose and has shown time and again that she believes in the power of community and the importance of all education,” Sharma says. “Her energy, openness, and integrity cannot be ignored as she continuously pushes for positive change. We are proud to recognize her leadership and genuine dedication to building a city where everyone is valued, heard, and included.”
Niamh O’Shea, Manager of International Student Integration at the College’s International Education Centre (IEC), received the Chris Warburton Award of Excellence, which annually recognizes a community member who has made a significant contribution to student life.
“Niamh plays a key role in making sure international students feel supported from the moment they arrive in Canada to graduation,” says Alain Cyr-Russo, the SA’s Senior Manager, Student Life. “She goes above and beyond in her commitment to supporting students’ transition to Algonquin College and works to foster their sense of connection, belonging, and community.”
Seven Algonquin professors received the Excellence in Teaching Award this year in recognition of faculty members who have gone above and beyond in the classroom. Candidates for the award are nominated by students; learn about our 2026 winners in these excerpts from their nominations:
Perth Campus:
- Andrew Pamenter (Heritage Carpentry and Joinery): “Andrew has been the most inspirational teacher... He has really drawn the passion out of me to want to improve with not just woodworking, but also with the way that I get over hurdles and reach for whatever I wish to reach for.”
- Martin Savard (Business Agriculture): “Martin has gone above and beyond to ensure that all the students in his classes have everything that they possibly need to succeed in our program.... Even when his workload is full, and he is stressed about personal issues, he prioritizes student success and the success of the program above all else.”
Pembroke Campus:
- Frank Christinck (Health and Community Studies): “Frank truly lives out the SA mission by creating an environment where student success is the priority. He is deeply devoted to making sure we understand the content, taking the time to explain concepts thoroughly and answer every question with patience and clarity.”
Ottawa Campus:
- Angela Clermont (Project Management): “Angela puts so much effort into making every class a unique experience. She makes sure that everybody feels included and shows genuine interest in our opinions and different views on the topics being discussed.”
- Irene Casey (Mechanical Transportation Technology): “Has extreme patience with students and motivates people to the best of their ability. Goes out of her way to make sure students, in large classes, understand the content that is being taught. Will go the extra mile and host her own tutorials to help after classes.”
- Paulo Sousa (Computer Engineering Technology): “Paulo created an environment where ambition was not just encouraged but expected…. Rather than limiting us to textbook examples, he challenged us to build something meaningful and real.”
- Sara MacGregor (Paramedic & Advanced Care Paramedic): “Sara takes personal responsibility for her students’ success and never lets anyone feel left behind…. You can definitely tell that her care goes beyond academics. She teaches with love.”