Professor of the Year Award
Rainier Grutman
Département de français (French Department)
Rainier Grutman, a professor in the Département de français (French Department), is internationally recognized for his research on literary multilingualism, or heterolingualism, and self-translation. His research has helped shape these fields and broadened how researchers understand the relationships between language, literature and culture.
His extensive record includes 65 peer-reviewed articles, 64 book chapters and numerous conference presentations. He is also a dedicated teacher and mentor, having supervised graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, and has served the University through a wide range of departmental and academic leadership roles.
For his influential research, commitment to teaching and service to the academic community, Professor Grutman is a deserving recipient of the Professor of the Year Award.
Distinguished Teaching Award (part-time)
Renate Sander-Regier
Department of Geography, Environment and Geomatics
Renate Sander-Regier is celebrated for her student-centred teaching, thoughtful course design and deep commitment to student learning. She teaches in both French and English and uses a flexible hybrid approach that combines self-paced online learning with participatory, in-person classes.
Her courses connect theory with experience. Through Community Service Learning partnerships and field-based learning, students engage with environmental and social issues beyond the classroom and apply their knowledge in practical settings. Colleagues also recognize her generosity in sharing her teaching approaches and community connections.
For her innovative teaching, bilingual instruction and care for students, Dr. Sander-Regier is a deserving recipient of the Distinguished Teaching Award for Part-Time Professors.
Early Researcher of the Year Award
Étienne Brown
Department of Philosophy
Since joining the Department of Philosophy in 2025, Étienne Brown has continued to build an ambitious research program at the intersection of moral and political philosophy. His work examines how algorithms, social media and artificial intelligence affect autonomy and democratic life.
His record includes a monograph, 21 articles and book chapters, and 34 conference presentations since 2019. He also founded PhilMod.org, an international research community focused on the ethics of content moderation, and regularly brings his ideas to wider audiences through media interviews, public writing and discussions in both official languages.
For his scholarship, public engagement and commitment to research in English and French, Professor Brown is a deserving recipient of the Emerging Researcher of the Year Award.
Support Staff Award of Excellence
Jean Bjornson
Department of Geography, Environment and Geomatics
Jean Bjornson is a central part of the Department of Geography, Environment and Geomatics. As a teaching laboratory coordinator, he oversees the day-to-day operation of the teaching labs, supports safe and effective use of equipment, and helps students develop practical skills. He also teaches several courses each year in both English and French.
His contributions extend across the department. He supports student recruitment and field learning, helps organize open houses, maintains departmental communications and is always ready to share his experience with students and colleagues. His knowledge, generosity and steady presence have made a lasting difference to the department.
For his wide-ranging contributions and exceptional commitment to the Faculty community, Jean Bjornson is a deserving recipient of the Administrative Staff Award of Excellence.
