University staff recognised for excellence in teaching
27 October 2026
Recipients of the Vice-Chancellor’s Teaching Excellence Awards are transforming how students learn and succeed.
Seven University of Auckland educators have been recognised for their outstanding contribution to teaching and learning in the 2026 Vice-Chancellor's Teaching Excellence Awards.
The annual awards recognise, encourage and reward excellence in teaching across the University. Each recipient receives a Teaching Excellence medal and a $6,000 prize.
This year's recipients are:
Sustained Excellence in Teaching
- Professor Rod McNaughton, Business School
- Dr Asma Shakil, Faculty of Science
- Dr Claire Meehan, Faculty of Arts and Education
Early Career Excellence in Teaching
- Dr Elliot Wen, Faculty of Science
- Dr Alex Shegay, Faculty of Engineering and Design
Formal Leadership in Teaching and Learning
- Andrew Eberhard, Business School
Outstanding Service to Teaching and Learning Environment
- Oriel Kelly, Auckland Law School
Read more about the recipients
This year’s award winners come from a range of disciplines, including business, engineering, computer science, criminology and law. Their achievements span teaching, educational leadership, curriculum innovation and support for learning.
Among their contributions are authentic workplace-based learning experiences, innovative approaches that make complex subjects more accessible, inclusive and culturally responsive teaching practices, and leadership that has strengthened programmes and learning environments.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Nic Smith said the awards were an opportunity to recognise the different ways colleagues contribute to teaching at the University.
Good teaching does more than help students develop knowledge and skills. It encourages them to ask questions, think differently and discover what they're capable of.
"Good teaching does more than help students develop knowledge and skills. It encourages them to ask questions, think differently and discover what they're capable of.
"This year's recipients have made outstanding contributions in different ways, whether through their own teaching, improving how students learn or helping colleagues develop their practice. Their achievements reflect the care and commitment that goes into providing a great education for our students.
“Congratulations to all seven recipients and thank you for your contributions to our University.”