UPEI celebrates the achievements of faculty and staff
Members of the UPEI community filled the UPEI Performing Arts Centre amphitheatre on May 21, 2026, to celebrate the achievements of their colleagues. During the event, the University Awards of Excellence and Years of Service Awards were presented to faculty, librarians, clinical veterinary professionals, clinical nursing instructors, sessional instructors, and staff members.
Dr. Wendy Rodgers, President and Vice-Chancellor, emphasized that all roles across the University are integral to delivering UPEI’s mission and for contributing to its success. She said every employee at the University contributes to supporting its academic mission and helping create opportunities for meaningful learning, research, and discovery that can positively impact the world. She added that the University’s greatest strength is its people—staff and faculty who recognize what needs attention and continue to apply their expertise and dedication to ensure the work gets done.
“UPEI is essential to the Island and to the world. We’re a major economic driver and contributor and more than that, we provide the innovation and the highly educated workforce needed to go out and keep industries moving forward, keeping up with the expectations that change daily,” said Rodgers. “The teachers, the nurses, the health professionals, engineers, business professionals, scientists, historians, and politicians go out there and make their own difference. Also, the artists, musicians and athletes, who are also sometimes the same people, keep the world interesting, beautiful, and competitive. You are UPEI. We need you and we need each other. We are grateful for the contributions of every single person. In some way, each and every person in this room benefits from all of the people in this room. Congratulations to today’s honourees!”
Receiving University Awards of Excellence were the following:
Dr. Jeffrey F. Collins, Assistant Professor, Political Science, received the University Teaching Excellence Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to teaching in areas such as teaching effectiveness and innovation, clinical instruction, and scholarship of teaching and learning and educational leadership. An engaging and dedicated educator, Dr. Collins has made an outstanding impact on student learning through his dynamic teaching, innovative approaches, and deep commitment to student success.
Dr. Yulin Hu, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Sustainable Design Engineering, received the University Research Excellence Award. The award recognizes faculty members for outstanding research and scholarly accomplishments and significant contribution to advancing the University’s national and international reputation for research excellence. Dr. Hu exemplifies excellence in research through her extraordinary scholarly impact, community‑centred innovation, and commitment to developing the next generation of researchers. Through her leadership, innovation, and dedication, she is advancing knowledge and strengthening UPEI’s position as a leader in impactful, globally relevant research.
Dr. Caroline Ritter, Canada Research Chair in Socio-Psychological Epidemiology for Healthy Animals, and Assistant Professor, Health Management, received the University Award for Excellence in Graduate Student Supervision for excellence in the supervision, mentorship, and support of graduate students. Dr. Ritter creates a supportive environment where students feel encouraged to explore their ideas, develop their strengths, and grow as scholars and professionals. With a thoughtful and student-centred approach, she balances high expectations with genuine care, guiding each student with patience, insight, and a deep commitment to their success.
Dr. Don Desserud, Chair/Professor, Political Science, received the University Award for Exemplary Service in the faculty category, which is presented to a UPEI employee who has demonstrated outstanding service and/or made significant contributions to the University community beyond that normally expected of their position. Throughout his career, Dr. Desserud has demonstrated outstanding and sustained contributions to the UPEI community that extend well beyond the expectations of his role. A dedicated scholar and leader, he has served in numerous capacities—including as dean, department chair, and member of both the University’s Senate and Board of Governors—consistently stepping forward to support the institution wherever needed. His willingness to assume additional responsibilities, often at critical moments, reflects a deep commitment to the success and stability of the University and its academic community.
Leslie Cudmore, Research Grants Coordinator, Research Services, received the University Award for Exemplary Service in the staff category. For over 20 years, she has supported faculty, postdocs, and students across all disciplines, guiding them through complex processes with exceptional expertise and care. Her work has helped secure millions of dollars in research funding, coordinate student award processes, and strengthen internal research grant applications—demonstrating sustained, outstanding service, and a deep commitment to the success of others. She is a trusted advisor, tireless advocate, and generous mentor, offering thoughtful guidance, developing impactful workshops, and ensuring fair, transparent, and accessible processes. Whether working late to meet critical deadlines or providing individualized support, she consistently goes above and beyond.
Kylah Hennessey, Career Counsellor, Experiential Education, received the University Award for Support of Student Success Award for making significant contributions to higher education by supporting student success. Through years of dedicated service, Hennessey has made a profound and lasting impact on students across the University community. As the institution’s sole career counsellor, she supports a wide range of undergraduate and graduate students, helping them navigate academic and career decisions with clarity and confidence. Through her holistic and deeply engaged approach, she exemplifies excellence in fostering student success and embodies the very spirit of this award.
Kevin F. MacDonald, Maintenance Repair, Facilities Management, received the University Ambassador Award, presented to a UPEI employee who has made a significant positive impact on the University by advancing the strategic priorities of their unit, department, or faculty, or by fostering a sense of excitement on campus and promoting fellowship, goodwill, and belonging within the University community. MacDonald has made a meaningful and lasting impact through his dedication, versatility, and exceptional work ethic. Beginning as an evening painter in 2017, he has steadily expanded his skills to include construction, building maintenance, and seasonal snow removal, consistently stepping up wherever support is needed. He approaches every task with care and professionalism, ensuring work is completed thoroughly and to the highest standard. Through his professionalism, strong character, and positive energy, he advances the work of his unit while strengthening the spirit of the UPEI community.
Click here to see the complete list of awards.
Congratulations to all!
