Celebrating the educators who shape lives and inspire learning

Extraordinary teachers shine a bright light to help students find their way, and those students carry that light with them for the rest of their lives.

Thirty-six exceptional educators were honoured May 5 at this year’s Students’ Teacher Recognition Reception, an annual gathering that celebrates teaching excellence. Each UM faculty and school selects an outstanding graduating student to share a heartfelt thank-you to two teachers – one from their Kindergarten to Grade 12 school years, and one from their time at the University of Manitoba.  

“To light a spark of inspiration and set a student down a fulfilling path of lifelong learning is never an easy feat,” said Dr. Michael Benarroch, UM President and Vice-Chancellor, to the honourees and families in attendance. He expressed thanks for two of his teachers who gave him confidence and encouraged him to always put in a full effort.  

He also thanked the University’s Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning, which hosts the annual event. “I've seen them in action,” he said. “I've seen the work they do. I've seen how they help our faculty become better teachers.” 

Also attending was Manitoba’s Minister of Advanced Education and Training, the Honourable Renée Cable, who said that people remember their extraordinary teachers forever. “As an adult, those voices come back and they remind you that you have potential, that you have capacity, and that you have an obligation to help the other people around you.” 

This year, 18 graduating students each spoke about two teachers who made a difference in their lives. Common themes emerged, as graduates spoke of their teachers’ ability to challenge students, their creative teaching approaches, and their passion for the subject at hand.  

It was also evident that great teaching stems from a generous heart. Each honouree, without fail, leads with kindness and empathy and gives students the gift of confidence.   

Inside and outside the classroom, exceptional teachers provide the steady support that encourages students to be curious, allows them to see obstacles as non-threatening and helps them to grow emotionally.  

Erin Clarke, graduating from the Faculty of Architecture, praised her high school gym teacher and basketball coach, Adam Hartman.

Great teachers recognize when giving a bit of extra help can change a student’s life. Joshua Gandier, graduating from the Faculty of Law, clearly remembers the moment he learned he would receive a much-needed bursary. His math teacher, Kari Bergmuller, had let him use her computer during lunch hours to research awards and fill out applications. She then reviewed them with him and helped him prepare for interviews.  

“I remember running down the hallway from the library, bursting into Ms. Bergmuller's class mid-lesson, and just giving her a big hug,” he recalled. “Because without [her] support and her generosity with her time, opportunities like that wouldn't have happened in my life.” 

The transition from high school to university can be intimidating. Students struggling to find their way appreciate the teachers who don’t let them get lost in the mix. Computer Science Instructor Franklin Bristow was lauded by student Jordan Hong for his sincerity and the care that he shows students. “When I talk to my peers about Franklin and how he makes students feel, the word ‘seen’ comes to mind,” Hong said. “Whether it's remembering your name or checking in on you to see if you're doing okay because you missed one assignment.”  

University students are also searching for role models in their chosen field. Sophie Chen, graduating from the Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry, shared how much she has learned from Dr. Noriko Boorberg about being a proficient clinician and a compassionate care provider. “Watching her lead with humility, resilience and genuine care for every patient set a standard that all of us wanted to rise to,” she said. “I hope that one day I can make even a fraction of the impact she has made.” 

Dr. Mark Torchia, Vice-Provost, (Learning, Analytics and Academic Infrastructure), presented each educator with an award and each student with a certificate to mark the occasion. A reception followed where teachers, students and their guests celebrated and reminisced.  

The 2026 event marked the crossing of a significant threshold: more than 1,000 educators have now been honoured to date.  

For a full list of award recipients and to learn more about this annual event, please visit Students’ Teacher Recognition Reception.