Champion journalist’s teaching award

CLARE Champion journalist Fiona McGarry has been recognised by NUI Galway as the winner of the 2021 winner of Excellence in Teaching and Learning Award in Journalism and Communication award.
Fiona, who is a lecturer in broadcast journalism at the university, described the recognition as a “huge honour”.
The award is voted on by students in the Discipline of Journalism and Communication, and recognises the lecturer who receives the overall highest marks in student evaluation of teaching scores annually.
Fiona was awarded the top prize for her commitment to high quality teaching, focus on student learning and the delivery of an outstanding student experience.
Head of Journalism and Communication Tom Felle said, “Fiona is an outstanding lecturer and this award recognises her commitment to our students.
“The last year and a half has been extremely difficult for students in schools and universities around the country, so this award for Fiona is a testament to all the hard work she has put in to ensure students achieved their potential in very challenging circumstances.”
Reacting to the award win, Fiona said, “It’s a real honour to be involved in training emerging journalists and broadcasters and I’m always impressed by their enthusiasm.
“On the Journalism and Media programmes, we take a student-centred approach and focus on getting to know students.
“During the pandemic, online and blended learning created a big challenge and students really responded well. It’s a huge honour to receive this award and I really appreciate the recognition from students and colleagues.”
Fiona, a native of County Mayo, lives in Ennis.