A passion for teaching and an unmatched commitment to students has earned Prof. Darcy MacPherson, a Student-Teacher Recognition Award.

This year, we mark the 20th Anniversary of the Student-Teacher Recognition Reception (STRR) - which gives an exemplary student from each faculty the opportunity to honour two outstanding teachers that have had a positive impact on their lives, both as students and beyond. Understanding that educational growth and development is a gradual process over many years, the chosen student is asked to nominate two teachers; one from the Kindergarten to Grade 12 years and one from their years in education at the University of Manitoba.

Brandon Trask chose to nominate Darcy Macpherson who once gave up a week’s vacation to help Brandon with his oral arguments in preparation for the Corporate Securities Moot Competition in Toronto. In addition, Prof. MacPherson also held optional weekly tutorial sessions for his Corporate Law class very early in the morning, not for extra money, not for recognition, but simply because he cares about his students.

Brandon also chose to nominate Mary Neely, Brandon’s Grade 5-6 teacher at St. John’s Ravenscourt School. Mary Neely, who currently lives in Dubai, traveled to Winnipeg to receive the honor. Mary Neely’s traveling of such a great distance and Professor MacPherson’s continued willingness to go the extra mile for his students are the epitome of what the Student Recognition Awards hopes to acknowledge.

Earlier this year, Professor MacPherson also received a University of Manitoba, Outreach Award, for his role as an academic advisor for the Bison Women’s Basketball program. Professor MacPherson held a weekly study session for first and second year student athletes making sure the students were aware of their weekly academic goals and responsibilities. The Outreach Award also recognized his long-standing involvement on the board of directors of the Canadian Centre on Disability Studies Inc., which is a non- profit, charitable organization dedicated to research, education, and information dissemination on disability issues.

Click here to view the 2012 STRR awards presentation.