Dr. Lee and Dr. Booker receives Western Awards for Excellence in Teaching
Two faculty members from the department of chemistry have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to students’ academic development, earning the 2025-26 Western Awards for Excellence in Teaching.
The awards selection process is overseen by the Senate Committee on University Teaching Award. The following summaries are based on nominations from across campus.
THE EDWARD G. PLEVA AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING
Named in honour of Edward Gustav Pleva, Western’s first geography teacher (1938) and head of the department (1948-1968). - our university’s highest honour for teaching
Felix Lee, Faculty of Science, department of chemistry
Over the past two decades, Felix Lee has taught more than 31,000 students, leaving an indelible mark on science education through his energy, clarity and commitment to student success.
Colleagues and alumni describe Lee as an educator whose classrooms are dynamic, inclusive and memorable, noting there is no shortage of students eager to attest to the role he played in their academic journeys.
One student recalled being “mesmerized by his ability to captivate more than 600 students,” while another said, “You truly have made my love for chemistry flourish and without you, I would not have continued down this path.”
THE MARILYN ROBINSON AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE IN TEACHING
Presented for outstanding contributions in classroom, laboratory or clinical instruction, this award is named after physiology professor and educational development office coordinator Marilyn Robinson, who prized the idea of active student learning and problem-solving.
Christina Booker, Faculty of Science, department of chemistry
Christina Booker is a model academic colleague whose leadership in scientific education, research and teaching is guided by her goal to help students “feel like they belong in science.”
Booker meticulously designs learning environments for success in her large first-year courses, achieving superb evaluations while upholding high academic standards. Her scholarship drives her teaching priorities, from leading major course redesigns to her thoughtful, research-informed work on the responsible use of generative AI as a learning support tool.
Beyond the classroom, Booker’s influence is felt through her leadership roles in educational development, policy and outreach. She has curated an extensive digital library, including many hours of instructional videos and targeted exercises, ensuring her students have a high-support ecosystem to excel at their own pace. A vital presence for women in STEM and an excellent mentor to undergraduate students and graduate teaching assistants, she is described by colleagues as a “true gem whose expertise and genuine care make her the ‘poster faculty’ for incoming science undergraduates.”
Congratulations to Dr. Lee and Dr. Booker! Thank you for your continuous effort in teaching and raising future chemists.
We are fortunate to have these outstanding educators in Chemistry, especially involved in our introductory chemistry classes.
