Bow Valley College is proud to announce that Raj Brar, an instructor at the Chiu School of Business, has been recognized with the Teaching Excellence Award for Associate Degree Programs in Canada (region 11) by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). This recognition marks a milestone in Raj's career, highlighting his dedication to teaching and his commitment to the success of his students.

"The Teaching Excellence Award is a tremendous honour, and I am truly grateful for this recognition," says Raj Brar. With more than 11 years of instructional experience within a post-secondary setting, his passion and dedication to education have driven him to create a meaningful impact on the lives of his students.

Raj's journey toward becoming an accomplished educator was not without its twists and turns. "While it took me a while to find my dream career, I found it in teaching," Raj shares. Working at Bow Valley College holds significant meaning for him, as the institution's Open Doors – Open Minds philosophy aligns with his values of inclusivity and provides a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds.

"Nothing compares to being involved in the journeys of our learners as they work towards their career goals and witnessing the positive transformations in their lives," Raj shares with enthusiasm. It is this deep connection with his students and their personal growth that drives him to go above and beyond in his role as an instructor.

In his efforts to enrich his students' learning experiences, Raj employs various approaches to foster engagement and inclusivity. "Incorporating universal design principles in course development, organizing in-class activities, and fostering group discussions are some of the strategies I use," he explains. By employing these methods, Raj ensures that his classes cater to the diverse needs of his learners, creating an environment where all students can thrive.

Beyond the classroom, Raj strives to bridge the gap between academia and industry, recognizing the importance of real-world application for his students' future success. "I organize and facilitate three industrywide networking events on campus each year, allowing students to connect with professionals and gain insights into the business world," Raj shares. Additionally, he has forged partnerships with industry leaders such as Scotiabank and TD Financial, creating mentorship programs that provide valuable opportunities for his students to learn from industry experts.

"Receiving this award reinforces my dedication to inspiring and transforming lives through education," he says.

“Raj’s commitment to student success and his innovative teaching approaches serve as an inspiration to educators everywhere,” says Alison Anderson, Dean of the Chiu School of Business. “We are thrilled to have an instructor whose dedication to empowering students and shaping future business leaders is unwavering.”

Bow Valley College congratulates Raj Brar on his remarkable achievement, recognizing the impact he has made in the lives of his students and the College community.