Great teaching doesn't happen alone: Celebrating the 2026 TLC graduates and mentors

Great teaching is shaped not only by knowledge and experience, but also by the connections educators build with one another. At the University of Manitoba, the Teaching and Learning Certificate (TLC) program brings this spirit of collaboration to life, creating opportunities for educators to share experiences, reflect on their practices and grow together.

On September 23, The Centre for the Advancement of Teaching and Learning celebrated the achievements of 19 TLC graduates alongside their mentors, marking it one of the largest graduating cohorts in the program's history.

Reflecting the diversity of teaching and learning at UM, the 2026 cohort brought together educators from disciplines including business, kinesiology and recreation management, nursing, engineering, pharmacy, mathematics, medicine, computer science, and food and human nutritional sciences. 

Learning through mentorship and shared experiences 

Completing the TLC program represents a significant commitment to professional growth and reflective teaching. Throughout their journey, participants engage in workshops, classroom observations and opportunities to examine and strengthen their teaching practices, supported by experienced mentors who bring their own perspectives and expertise to the learning process.

For educational developer and mentor Nausheen Peerwani, the value of the program extends beyond developing teaching skills, creating opportunities for growth on both sides of the mentoring relationship.

Dr. Sri Ranjan, professor and acting head of the Department of Biosystems Engineering in the Price Faculty of Engineering, shares this perspective, highlighting how mentorship creates opportunities for educators to learn from one another.

"[The Program] is a valuable opportunity to improve the teaching skills of both the mentee and the mentor. It is truly a mutually beneficial experience." 

Growing as educators, together 

The TLC program also encourages participants to explore new approaches, challenge their assumptions, and build confidence in their teaching practices.

For 2026 graduate Fabiana Turelli, assistant professor in the Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management, the program provided a “meaningful and supportive” environment for professional growth. While recognizing the time and commitment required, Turelli emphasized the value of an experience that encourages educators to embrace new ideas and think outside the box.

This spirit of shared learning was evident throughout the graduation celebration, where participants reflected not only on their individual accomplishments but also on the people who contributed to their development as educators.

TLC coordinator Jackie Hope reflected on the personal connections highlighted during the ceremony and the lasting influence of a supportive teaching community. 

The achievements of the 2026 TLC graduates reflect a shared commitment to strengthening teaching and learning at UM. Through mentorship, reflection, and collaboration, the program continues to support a community of educators who learn from one another and bring new perspectives to their teaching.

Learn more about the Teaching and Learning Certificate program and opportunities to develop your teaching practice at UM.