Transformative education at Trinity Western University happens through dedicated educators whose passion and innovation shape meaningful learning experiences. Each year, we celebrate faculty members whose teaching not only demonstrates professional excellence but also brings to life our distinctive Christ-centred educational approach.
This spring, the University is proud to announce our teaching awards recipients for 2025.
2025 Davis Distinguished Teaching Award
The Davis Distinguished Teaching Award is conferred upon a faculty member who has demonstrated a high level of excellence in the craft of teaching and has made a significant contribution to the pedagogical life of the University.
Trinity Western University is pleased to announce that the 2025 Davis Distinguished Teaching Award recipient is Sessional Assistant Professor of Leadership Dr. Jeffrey Beck.
Jeffrey Beck has a DMin degree from Trinity International University and a Master's degree from Regent College. He is an ordained minister with the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada. With over 40 years of experience in Christian leadership, Dr. Beck imparts his wisdom at TWU through teaching in the MA in Leadership program.
Commendations submitted about Dr. Beck highlight his engaging teaching methods, thoughtful feedback, pastoral care, and seamless integration of Christian faith into the curriculum while also honouring diversity.
Students and colleagues remark on Dr. Beck’s teaching:
“Through his exemplary teaching, mentorship, and commitment to student growth, Dr. Jeffrey Beck has made a profound impact on his students, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to lead with integrity and purpose.”
“His assessments—like reflective journals and peer evaluations—not only set high standards but encouraged personal growth, with many students calling the course ‘life-changing’ due to the confidence and skills they gained.”
Those who have benefitted from Dr. Beck’s teaching affirm that Dr. Beck prioritizes inclusivity by tailoring his methods to diverse learners. For example, he uses role-playing exercises to demonstrate adaptive leadership styles and incorporates case studies from global contexts, ensuring that varied perspectives are represented. Furthermore, during discussions on ethical dilemmas, he creates a judgment-free space where even hesitant students feel empowered to share.
Others attest that Dr. Beck integrates faith into academics by framing leadership through a Christian lens. Dr. Beck explores servant leadership by linking biblical parables, like the Good Samaritan, to modern ethical decision-making. During a unit on conflict resolution, he emphasized forgiveness and humility, urging students to reflect on their values. Beyond the classroom, he organized a volunteer initiative with a homeless shelter, tying service to leadership responsibility. Students describe his mentorship as holistic, nurturing both their academic and spiritual growth.
One student shared how Dr. Beck's mentorship has had a profound impact on their educational journey, "fostering confidence and a desire to excel.”
Another student added, “Jeffrey Beck’s innovative teaching, inclusive ethos, and faith-centred guidance have left an indelible mark on students taking Leadership Foundations. Dr. Beck doesn’t just teach leadership—he embodies it, shaping students into principled, compassionate leaders.”
2025 Provost Innovative Teaching Award
Designed to celebrate scholarly experimentation and innovation, the Provost Innovative Teaching Award honours faculty who actively research and implement new methods to improve student learning.
Trinity Western University is pleased to announce that the 2025 Provost Innovative Teaching Award recipient is Assistant Professor of Sociology Dr. Jason Burtt.
Jason Burtt has an MA in Theological Studies from Regent College, and MA and PhD Sociology degrees from Baylor University. His research interests are in social trust, technology, sociology of religion, social psychology, and positive sociology. He is an ordained minister with the Canadian Baptists of Western Canada, and before his foray into sociology, Jason was a youth pastor and worship leader.
Commendations for Dr. Burtt focused on how his innovative teaching methods were creative while at the same time pushing against an overreliance on technology. He embodies the concept that innovation in the classroom can occur without dependence on sophisticated programs, including AI, and is inherently human.
Those who have experienced Dr. Burtt’s teaching are greatly impressed:
“I have never had a class as interesting and engaging as Jason Burtt's,” a student enthused. “I still remember so much material from the class because of the unique ways that Jason used to teach us about it. I had so many conversations outside of my class about what Jason was teaching, and I feel that I am more prepared to enter the next stage of my life as a young adult because of what I learned.”
“A hallmark of Professor Burtt’s teaching is his ability to integrate theoretical concepts with real-world applications,” another student affirmed. “His courses employ interactive discussions, case studies, and experiential learning to deepen student understanding.”
Students shared how Dr. Burtt exemplifies innovation in teaching by continuously researching and implementing creative strategies that engage students beyond traditional disciplinary methods, for example, using Monopoly to reinforce sociological principles."
“A key aspect of Jason’s teaching is his development of high-quality but unique instructional materials that extend beyond standard coursework... He has designed interactive case studies, educational games, and real-world simulations that not only enrich his own classroom but are also shared as valuable resources among faculty within and beyond the institution.”
Furthermore, Dr. Burtt is known to be innovative and forward-thinking when it comes to the way he uses his class time. "Jason uses class time to convey class context in a unique manner," one student shared. "We are often given articles and excerpts in class to annotate and discuss. We are given real projects to connect with and learn from real people. Jason's class has allowed me to do the best and most meaningful learning to date in my educational career.”
Dr. Burtt has creatively found ways to approach the use of AI by teaching students in a way that minimizes the reliance on technology. As one student explained, "He has an unconventional way of teaching, and students are always encouraged to contribute to class discussions. Every now and then, we take part in activities or games that help us visualize or better understand the concepts we are learning. Dr. Burtt's creativity and intentionality are evident in the way he teaches.”
Students shared how they are encouraged to think deeply about current issues and engage in collaborative learning that stimulates critical thinking. Through Dr. Burtt's teaching, students regularly consider how their learning can benefit society and meet the needs of vulnerable populations.
Please join us in congratulating this year's TWU teaching awards recipients.
About Trinity Western University
Founded in 1962, Trinity Western University is a global Christian liberal arts university. We are dedicated to equipping students to discover meaningful connections between career, life, and the needs of the world. Drawing upon the riches of the Christian tradition, seeking to unite faith and reason through teaching and scholarship, Trinity Western University is a degree-granting research institution offering liberal arts and sciences as well as professional schools in business, nursing, education, human kinetics, graduate studies, and arts, media, and culture. It has campuses in Canada in Langley, Richmond, and Ottawa. Learn more at www.twu.ca or follow us on Instagram @trinitywestern, Twitter @TrinityWestern, on Facebook and LinkedIn. For media inquiries, please contact: media@twu.ca.