Shaghayegh (Shay) Chavoshian (BME PhD student) has won a 2024 TA Teaching Excellence Award from the University of Toronto’s Teaching Assistants’ Training Program (TATP). She is one of just five recipients this year. Established in 2003, the prestigious award acknowledges the remarkable contributions of teaching assistants (TAs) who inspire and challenge undergraduate students, significantly enhancing their learning experience.

Since beginning her PhD in January 2022, Chavoshian has held more than 10 TA appointments across various departments, including at the Institute of Biomedical Engineering, The Edward S. Rogers Sr. Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering, Department of Computer Science, and the Department of Mechanical & Industrial Engineering. Her versatile roles have spanned tutorial TA, classroom support TA, office hour TA, marking TA, and lab TA, reflecting her comprehensive engagement and dedication across both undergraduate and graduate courses.

“This award is a significant recognition of my dedication to teaching and mentorship,” says Chavoshian.

In addition to being named a recipient of the Teaching Excellence Award, Chavoshian’s commitment to both her academic research and entrepreneurial initiatives has been notably recognized at the 2024 International Conference on Aging, Innovation, and Rehabilitation. She received the first place award for her PhD research and secured second place in the Concept Power Play Pitch Competition with her innovative entrepreneurial idea.

Aside from her work in teaching, research and entrepreneurship, Chavoshian was recognized as the volunteer of the month by UHN STEM Pathways in January 2024. She has contributed to outreach efforts and engaged with youth interested in STEM.