Nancy has been the Lecturer in Practical Theology in the School of Social Sciences and Humanities since completing her doctorate on Christian Mysticism in 1999. She has come to tertiary education from a practical background working as a pastoral carer with older people and also with university students. Formerly a member of a religious community, this is reflected in her continuing interest in the area of contemporary spirituality which can be seen in her units. Nancy teaches across the disciplines of pastoral care and counselling, worship and liturgy, homiletics, supervision and leadership. In addition, she supervises both honours and postgraduate students.

Originally trained in systems thinking as a geographer and ecologist, Nancy brings a systems perspective to the construction and implementation of her units. Through the use of practical activities and exercises, she challenges her students to reflect critically across different interrelated systems-personal, social, cultural, political and environmental. She encourages students to go beyond collecting facts to integrating their knowledge, experience and insight so that they may become creative thinkers and agents for social change and justice. This move from information to transformation of perspective through reflective praxis is captured in the comment of one student: "I am inspired, motivated and amazed!"

Nancy was co-creator of the unit Developing Community Leadership, an Australian first in that it provided residential assistants in university housing with theoretical knowledge and practical skills to develop and enhance their leadership capabilities. Although originally aimed at residential assistants and students involved in community organizations, the unit has been adapted for wider application and attracts students from many disciplines. Nancy's leadership, in the area of Christian education, has also been recognized at the national level through invitations to be a keynote speaker and to contribute papers for publication.

Whether working with students online through WebCT or with students face-to-face, Nancy endeavors to model a passion for lifelong learning.

Congratulations Nancy

Jane joined Murdoch University in 1996 and is one of our most creative teachers. She has taught a range of units in that time, in particular in primary, secondary and tertiary teacher education courses. Her teaching and research interests are varied and lie in teaching and learning in tertiary settings, in critical pedagogy, and in diversity, inclusivity and social justice in education as well as a particular interest in Indigenous education issues. In 2001, Jane took on the very demanding task of developing and teaching the UniFocus Program at the Rockingham Campus. This bridging program enables students from the Rockingham and Mandurah communities, who lack formal entry qualifications, to gain entry to Murdoch University and study here successfully. And thanks to Jane's leadership it has been highly successful, with 100% of the student completing the program, and over 80% enrolled in a degree program at Murdoch. Students who have completed the program have commented that they view the world differently now and have come to appreciate their potential as an individual. In one student's view, "Through this program I have regained the confidence to compete in the world, not just participate." That a lecturer can have that impact on a student is great testament to the quality of Jane's teaching.

Congratulations Jane

Carolyn embraces the teaching role fully. A colleague commented "If I were required to summarise her as a teacher using just three words they would be dedicated, enthusiastic and innovative." Another colleague said, " She makes learning fun, and has a special ability to share the true delight in the sheer joy of learning." One student gave this view, "She talks to us as 'young scientists' but also provides the basic principles as a starting point. She creates laughter and interest in class."

Students are at the centre of Carolyn's teaching, importance is placed on equity and compassion for each individual. Her philosophy is to provide fresh, innovative, responsive and textured opportunities to learn and she uses technology to enhance and enrich the community of learning in her classes. She provides leadership, knowledge and design skills in the implementation of online teaching and learning in the School of Biological Sciences & Biotechnology.

Congratulations Carolyn

Peter is a bit of an institution at Murdoch and has been since he graduated from Murdoch with Honours in Environmental Science in 1988. Having completed his PhD at Murdoch in 1994, Peter has taken a very public role in promoting environmental awareness and healthy living. His public profile is well earned and his research record a credit to Murdoch. Equally impressive is his very enthusiastic support for first year students. He has concentrated on ensuring the experience of first students is a positive one, particularly the large number in Environmental Science. He is widely recognised for his enthusiasm and openness and availability to students. It is clear that students appreciate this approach as reflected in student comments such as, "He is always available to help students in need", and "Peter is one of the best and most enthusiastic lecturers at Murdoch by far!". Having achieved an Excellence in Teaching Award is strong confirmation of that statement.

Congratulations Peter