Killam Research and Teaching Awards recognize outstanding mentorship in education

The University of Calgary recently celebrated excellence in mentorship through its prestigious 2024 Killam Research and Teaching Awards, recognizing those who profoundly impacted students’ academic and personal growth. 

Two faculty members were honoured for their outstanding contributions in this area: Dr. Jerrod Smith, PhD, from the Faculty of Science and Dr. Gina Dimitropoulos, PhD, from the Faculty of Social Work (FSW)

“UCalgary is proud to recognize educators like Dr. Smith and Dr. Dimitropoulos, whose mentorship not only enriches students' academic journeys, but also prepares them to be leaders in their respective fields,” says Dr. William Ghali, vice-president (research). “Their efforts ensure that our students are equipped with the skills and resilience needed for future success, both inside and outside the classroom.” 

The two educators’ mentorship approaches share a common theme: both prioritize the personal and professional growth of their students, creating environments where collaboration, reflection and intellectual exploration are encouraged. Their mentorship has empowered students to confidently pursue their academic interests, contributing to their success and to the broader academic community.

Dimitropoulos, PhD, recieved the Killam Graduate Supervision and Mentorship Award.

Her mentorship philosophy revolves around creating an inclusive and collaborative environment. Since joining FSW in 2015, she has supervised 12 PhD students, eight postdoctoral scholars and 43 master’s students, demonstrating a deep commitment to shaping the next generation of social work leaders and scholars. 

In her research lab, Dimitropoulos cultivates a space where students from diverse backgrounds feel valued, encouraging reflective practice as a cornerstone of learning.

“Dr. Dimitropoulos fosters a supportive and collaborative environment, eschewing competition in favour of shared learning,” says Sandy Rao, a current doctoral candidate under her supervision. This approach has led to numerous success stories, including students securing prestigious awards such as scholarships from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council.

Dimitropoulos emphasizes the importance of building connections beyond academia. Her students are frequently introduced to national and international experts, facilitating opportunities for collaboration and networking that extend beyond their graduate studies. “Gina not only guided my academic work, but connected me with top researchers in youth mental health, which was pivotal for my career development,” says Dr. Kyleigh Schraeder, PhD.

Through her mentorship, Dimitropoulos instils values of inclusivity, intellectual curiosity and resilience, making her a deserving recipient of the Killam Graduate Supervision and Mentorship Award.

Smith was honoured with the Killam Undergraduate Mentorship Award. 

His approach to mentorship is grounded in providing students with authentic research experiences, fostering their growth as mathematicians. Since joining UCalgary in 2018, Smith has taught more than 5,000 students across 27 courses, and his mentorship has impacted students both within the classroom and in research settings.

In his undergraduate mentorship, Smith integrates research opportunities into coursework, offering students the chance to engage in mathematical inquiry beyond the typical classroom experience. One notable example is his MATH 311 course, where students explore real-world applications of linear algebra. This hands-on approach allows students to see the practical relevance of their studies, igniting their passion for mathematics. As one student notes, “the opportunity to work on a final project gave me a new perspective on how mathematics applies to real-world problems.”

Smith’s mentorship extends beyond formal coursework. He regularly supervises undergraduate research projects, many of which have secured funding through prestigious programs such as UCalgary’s Program for Undergraduate Research Experience and Undergraduate Student Research Awards, and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada. 

His dedication to student success is reflected in his commitment to helping students secure resources for their research endeavours. A significant aspect of Smith’s mentorship is his focus on the holistic development of his students. He encourages them to set personal learning goals and reflect on their progress throughout the semester, fostering a sense of ownership over their educational journey. This individualized approach has left a lasting impact on his students, with many citing his mentorship as pivotal in their academic and professional development.