Members of USask Nursing Recognized at 2026 USSU Excellence Awards
Lecturer Michelle Patterson and nursing student Hanna Depeel receive USSU Awards.
Two members of the University of Saskatchewan (USask) College of Nursing community were honoured at the 2026 University of Saskatchewan Students’ Union (USSU) Excellence Awards ceremony in March.
These USSU annual awards recognize and celebrate outstanding contributions to teaching, learning, and student experience at USask.
College of Nursing Lecturer Michelle Patterson (MN’21, BSN’12) received the Teaching Excellence Award, while Hanna Depeel, third-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) student at the Prince Albert Campus, was presented with the Vera Pezer Award for Student Enhancement.
The Teaching Excellence Award is selected by students and recognizes those who demonstrate enthusiasm, organization, fairness in evaluation, and exceptional commitment to supporting their classrooms.
Since joining the College of Nursing in 2016, Patterson has held a number of positions, including teaching across second, third, and fourth‑year labs and clinical settings with the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.
She completed her Master of Nursing (course‑based) degree in 2021 and currently serves in a limited‑term faculty lecturer position.
Her teaching interests include therapeutic communication, client education, leadership, anti‑racism, and trauma-informed practice—areas where students consistently note her supportive and engaging approach.
Patterson shared her gratitude for the recognition.
“I am extremely grateful for this award and for the nursing students who made it possible,” said Patterson. "Their recognition is deeply meaningful to me, and it is a privilege to be part of their learning journey.”
The Vera Pezer Award for Student Enhancement honours student volunteers who dedicate their time and energy to improving the non-academic facets of student life at USask.
Depeel received the award for her contributions as a member of the USSU Council, where she has volunteered her time and energy to enhance the student experience for her peers.
"Serving on Student Council has been one of the most meaningful parts of my university experience. Mostly because of the people beside me—my fellow council members—whose dedication, passion, and care for students continually inspire me. It’s a privilege to work with such committed volunteers, and I’m deeply grateful to share this recognition with them and to accept the Vera Pezer Award," said Depeel.
The College of Nursing congratulates both Patterson and Depeel on their achievements and thanks them for their dedication to strengthening the learning environment and student community at USask.