A Robert Gordon University (RGU) lecturer has received the highest recognition from a professional institution in recognition of her contribution to the development of learning and teaching.
Dr Sundari Joseph from the university’s School of Nursing and Midwifery has been appointed as a Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, the professional body for practising academics in the UK.
The award recognises excellence in teaching within a university setting and the wider academic community nationally and internationally. Dr Joseph will be one of only two members of staff at RGU with this award.
Dr Sundari Joseph has worked at RGU for 19 years with a focus on nurse education and interprofessional education. Her lead in pioneering new and innovative learning has resulted in enhanced student experiences within health and social care courses.
She is vice chair of the Centre for the Advancement of Interprofessional Education (CAIPE) and has led research projects with partners in Australia, Japan and Qatar that have championed educational and cross cultural collaboration.
These are the types of requirements which are needed for the principal fellow award based on the UK professional Standards Framework (UKPSF) on which applicants with substantial strategic responsibilities are assessed by a panel of experts.
Dr Joseph said: “I was very surprised to receive this recognition for work that I am passionate about and am grateful to the Higher Education Academy for the principal fellow award.
“My colleagues at RGU’s School of Nursing and Midwifery have been very encouraging and supportive of my application and I look forward to a new era of growth and development, reaping benefits for everyone I work with.”
Professor Val Maehle, Dean of RGU’s Faculty of Health and Social Care, said: “This is a great accomplishment and I am delighted for Dr Joseph and very proud that she is in our Faculty. This award is well earned recognition of her sustained commitment to teaching and learning and the key role she continues to play in this arena.”
Professor Ian Murray, Head of RGU’s School of Nursing and Midwifery, added: “The principal fellow award is well earned recognition of Dr Joseph’s work and contribution to the development of learning and teaching at RGU.”