November 8, 2006
UNB Fredericton News Release: D829
Natalie Montgomery, Communication Officer (506) 453-4990

Creativity, enthusiasm and compassion are just a few of the reasons why Philip Sexsmith is the recipient of the 2006 Allan P. Stuart Award for Excellence in Teaching at the University of New Brunswick in Fredericton. He was honoured at the university’s fall graduation ceremony.

Prof. Sexsmith spent the early part of his teaching life in public school. He inspired middle-and high-school students to reach academic, musical and dramatic heights they didn’t know were within their grasp. In the process he inspired and entertained the community with ambitious student musical productions. His own reach was prodigious and his colleagues maintain he could reach even unreachable students.

He brings this respect, compassion and appreciation for his students and his profession to his position as faculty associate in UNBF’s faculty of education.

“His students mention how much attention Philip pays to his teaching,” said Marian Small, former dean of education. “He is constantly trying new approaches, always telling them why he is trying those approaches, and consistently asking for feedback.”

Prof. Sexsmith was nominated for the award by one of his students.

“I nominated Philip Sexsmith for this award because of his talent and enthusiasm for teaching and reaching all young people,” said Rebecca Doige, an education student. “He believes there is potential for greatness in every student. Philip consistently models respectful, innovative, and thoughtful teaching methods and classroom management techniques. He takes a genuine interest in his own students and never tires of offering advice and encouragement. He is a model teacher who loves to learn.”

In the citation she read at graduation, Mrs. Doige said that Prof. Sexsmith creates a safe and positive learning environment and he practices what he preaches as a teacher educator. Because he is a teacher of teachers, she said, untold numbers of New Brunswick school children will benefit from his skilful and dedicated work in the classroom.

“This is probably one of the nicest gestures I have ever experienced,” said Prof. Sexsmith of his award. “It means even more to me because it came from the students with whom I work every day. It’s truly humbling.”

The Allan P. Stuart Award for Excellence in Teaching recognizes outstanding teaching on the basis of nominations from students and faculty members at UNB. It is named in honour of Allan P. Stuart, a respected UNB professor of chemistry from 1946 to 1973 and one of the first recipients of an excellence in teaching award at the university.

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