September 26, 2005 Source: Acadia University:
http://www.acadiau.ca/whatsnew/newsrelease/2005/peter_williams_26sep05.html Acadia University professor named one of the top educators in the region by Association of Atlantic Universities (Wolfville, NS) - Acadia University is proud to congratulate Dr. Peter J. Williams as a recipient of the 2005 Association of Atlantic Universities Distinguished Teacher Award. Announced today by the AAU, Dr. Williams, a physics professor at Acadia, is one of only two to receive this prestigious award. Established in 1991, the AAU Distinguished Teacher Award recognizes excellence in teaching in Atlantic Canadian universities. Nominations are made by the 18 member institutions of the AAU and winners chosen by the Coordinating Committee on Faculty Development. "Dr. Williams is a tremendous example of what excellence in teaching really means," said Dr. Gail Dinter-Gottlieb, President and Vice-Chancellor of Acadia. "With an innovative classroom approach and emphasis on what's best for his students, he has an important impact on the entire university community." Well-known for his enthusiasm for physics, Dr. Williams is also known for his leading edge and creative style of teaching. He has successfully integrated technology into the teaching of physics including a pioneering course called Studio Physics, a problem-based approach to teaching first-year physics. In 2002, the International Conference on College Teaching, Learning and Technology presented Dr. Williams an award for this unique course. He also received the Acadia Award for Excellence in Teaching in October 2004. "Dr. Williams possesses a tremendous capacity and enthusiasm for his discipline," says Dr. Ralph Nilson, Acadia University's Vice-President Academic. "He exhibits an empathetic approach to his students and defines a new type of faculty who understand the value of student-centred, engaged learning." A formal presentation to Dr. Williams and other award winners will be made in Halifax in April 2006. Acadia University, in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, has long been recognized as one of Canada's premier undergraduate institutions. With its nationally and internationally recognized research initiatives, small class sizes and technology-rich teaching and learning environment, Acadia offers students an experience that includes academic achievement combined with personal growth and development. For more information about Acadia, visit our website at www.acadiau.ca. -30- For more information contact:
Scott Roberts
Senior Director, Communications and Public Affairs
Acadia University
P: 902.585.1705
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