Faculty Receive USSU Teaching Excellence Awards

The USSU Teaching Excellence Awards program recognizes professors who demonstrate teaching excellence at the University of Saskatchewan. Nominated by students, the award distinguishes those professors who demonstrate enthusiasm, organization and fairness in evaluation and who provide exceptional commitment and support in their classrooms.

Tracie Risling was nominated by students in her NURS 200 Term 1 class and she thanks them for their initiative and participation in the award process. “I believe teaching is a partnership, and every classroom I enter is an opportunity to share information and support learning, but also to form relationships and learn about, and from, my students,” said Tracie.

Dr. Risling has been an Assistant Professor in the College of Nursing since 2010. She has a passion for teaching nursing issues, ethics and theory and also spends time with students in the pediatric clinical setting where she still practices as an Registered Nurse.

Cheryl Besse was nominated by students in her NURS 330 Term 1 class.  “I am humbled to receive this award, especially considering there are so many incredible teachers across campus who are equally deserving,” said Besse. “I can think of no greater honour than to be nominated by the students. The fact is, I am just doing what I love to do. It is my privilege to be a part of the students’ journey and while this award is a tremendous acknowledgment, I am rewarded every day to have the opportunity to be their teacher.”

Cheryl is an Assistant Professor in the College of Nursing and has taught in the undergraduate program for over 20 years. Her teaching areas of interest include obstetrical nursing, health assessment and basic skills. Cheryl finds great satisfaction sharing her passion when teaching nursing students. 

Congratulations Tracie and Cheryl – the students are lucky to have you!