Julian Barling cited for grad student supervision

Julian Barling, Associate Dean Research and Director of the PhD/MSc programs, received an Award for Excellence in Graduate Student Supervision at Fall Convocation in October. The award recognizes outstanding supervisors from the Social Sciences and Humanities and from the Life Sciences, Natural Sciences and Engineering disciplines who demonstrate an enthusiasm for the pursuit of knowledge, and encourage research and professional development of students through mentorship and guidance. These prestigious awards are given to only two faculty members annually; the other recipient for 2008 is Prof. James Cordy from the School of Computing.

Award criteria include the quality of supervision and mentorship in facilitating the acquisition of skills required for students to succeed as scholars and professionals. Candidates were evaluated on their availability, timeliness and quality of their guidance and feedback, responsiveness to student needs, enthusiasm for the pursuit of knowledge, promotion of the timely completion of students’ theses, and support of such academic pursuits as publishing, presenting and applying for funding.

Students who prepared letters of support for Julian’s nomination were enthusiastic in their praise. “Julian's enthusiasm for research is infectious, his availability outstanding, but most importantly, his concern and consideration for students are phenomenal. He truly wants his students to succeed, both inside and outside the classroom,” wrote one student. Another commented: “He has been, and continues to be, an inspiration to me and to countless others in this area of his professional life. His spirit and sense of humour are added bonuses that make working with him fun.”