Published: 9 March 2020
Four lecturers at the University of Sunderland in London have been awarded Fellowships from the Higher Education Academy (HEA).
Dr Solomon Afework, Dr Patrick Igulot and Dr Rekha Elaswarapu, lecturers on the BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care (Top-Up) course, and Dr Thorben Hänel-Muhs, Senior Lecturer/Programme Manager (Postgraduate Business), were given the status in February as part of an ongoing push to celebrate the academic expertise of the University’s staff.
“I think one of the best parts of applying for the HEA Fellowship was undertaking the reflective exercises while preparing to submit the portfolio.” Thorben Hänel-Muhs says. “For example, observation and evaluation of the micro-teaching of my peers in order to identify best practice, also from other subject disciplines. The HEA Fellowship also recognizes that you are equipped with most appropriate tools, knowledge and the mindset to constantly challenge your own teaching style and strategies employed in the classroom.”
The HEA is a globally recognised organisation with over 73,000 Fellows. Their aim is to support excellence in higher education by bringing together the best in teaching and student support.
“It was sensational to be recognised as a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy as it marks a great milestone in my academic career.” Dr Patrick Igulot says. “I intend to use this global recognition of my commitment to professionalism in my teaching at the University. I’m excited to continue supporting high standards and outcomes in higher education.”
“It was sensational to be recognised as a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy as it marks a great milestone in my academic career.” - Dr Patrick Igulot – BSc (Hons) Health and Social Care (Top-Up).
Academic staff are given the HEA Fellowship status as proof of their passion for teaching, learning and improving the student experience. Each of the University’s HEA Fellows is a dedicated teacher and researcher that uses their knowledge and experience to improve the quality of teaching for all of our students.
“Everyone at the University is delighted that the campus has four new Fellows of the HEA. It shows the growing depth of teaching and learning expertise in our academic teaching team. We’re proud of the continuous progress of staff development across both the Administrative and Academic teams as we move towards our target of 100% membership.” – Dr Geoff Paul, Assistant Director.
Find out more about what Solomon, Patrick and Rekha teach on the Nursing and Health course pages and visit our Business, Management and Finance page for Thorben’s courses.
Visit the Higher Education Academy website to learn about the Fellowship scheme. Find out more by following #WeAreSunLon on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.