Symons Award for Excellence in Teaching: Dr. Nour Hammami, Child &Youth Studies
Dr. Nour Hammami is an assistant professor in Child & Youth Studies at Trent Durham Greater Toronto Area. Dr. Hammami is recognized as a creative, inspiring, and generous educator whose interactive teaching, supportive mentorship, and ability to simplify complex material through real‑life examples have left a meaningful impact on her students. Dr. Hammami builds students’ confidence through ongoing encouragement and creates safer learning environments where students can thrive both academically and personally. Dr. Hammami inspires and challenges students, facilitating difficult discussion topics with sensitivity and care. Her passion for teaching is evident in all aspects of her work, as is her steadfast commitment to students’ success.
From a nominator: “Nour genuinely cares about her students and always takes the time to make sure no one is left behind. Her support motivated me to participate more and believe in my ability to succeed academically.”
Distinguished Research Award: Dr. P. Whitney Lackenbauer
The 2026 Distinguished Research Award honours Dr. P. Whitney Lackenbauer, Canada Research Chair in the Study of the Canadian North and a professor in the School for the Study of Canada. He is internationally recognized as one of Canada’s leading experts on Arctic and Northern security, governance, and policy. His research has shaped national and global conversations on climate change, emerging security challenges, and northern sovereignty, while advancing Indigenous‑centered, community‑engaged approaches.
Since joining Trent University in 2018, he has produced an exceptional body of scholarship that continues to inform government decision‑making. Dr. Lackenbauer founded the North American and Arctic Defence and Security Network (NAADSN) in 2019, which has since become a major policy research hub with significant external funding. A prolific and award‑winning author, he is also a former Killam Fellow, Fulbright Scholar, and Distinguished Visiting Professor at the Canadian Forces College, which underscores his outstanding impact and influence.
From a nominator: “His long-standing relationships with Northern Indigenous partners ensure that his research is conducted in the North, with the North, and for the North. This approach strengthens both the scholarly integrity and the real-world impact of his work.”
