At the University of Fredericton (UFred), exceptional teaching doesn’t just happen; it’s intentionally built through care, creativity, and connection. This year, UFred is proud to celebrate two remarkable educators, Dr. Raeleen Manjak and Mr. Ali Abbas, who have each received the Academic Teaching and Excellence Award for their unwavering commitment to student growth and meaningful learning experiences.
Creating a space where curiosity leads the way
When graduate faculty member Dr. Raeleen Manjak learned she had been nominated for the award, she was surprised in the best possible way. “It was totally unexpected and humbling,” she said. “When Dean Dr. Michael Hobeck advised that I had been nominated, I was at a loss for words. I am incredibly grateful to my students, the amazing faculty I work with, and everyone at UFred who helps create such a supportive environment for learning.”
Dr. Manjak, a faculty member in UFred’s School of Business, sees learning as a shared experience. She believes this award is not just a reflection of her work, but of the entire academic community at UFred. “Nothing happens in isolation,” she explained. “It is about the community of learners, practitioners, and scholars that I get to work alongside.”
Her teaching philosophy centres on building a positive, inclusive space where students are encouraged to ask questions, take risks, and treat mistakes as stepping stones. “I believe those moments are where real learning happens—they are not failures, but opportunities to grow,” she said.
Dr. Manjak also works to connect course content with real-world experiences, helping students see the practical value of what they’re learning. She encourages them to stay curious, even beyond the classroom. “I want them to feel safe in the environment and to know that I am walking with them on this path to success. This is during and after our time together, and it is what a Community of Practice is all about.”
Teaching as quiet service
Mr. Ali Abbas—an undergraduate faculty member — describes teaching as “a kind of quiet service, a way to walk beside students as they grow into who they're becoming.” Being honoured for that work, he said, was both humbling and energizing.
He reflected on the meaning behind the award, particularly in light of his family’s sacrifices and the support he’s received along the way, sharing, “It reminded me why my mother and father sacrificed everything for me to come to Canada. If I could, I’d have mom and dad take this award as they brought me to this moment. I’d have them in the picture with Dr. Michael Hobeck who supported me throughout my teaching!”
Mr. Abbas’ approach is rooted in presence, empathy, and the belief that meaningful learning starts with meeting students where they are. “Sometimes that’s with a case study, sometimes it’s a hard question, and other times it’s just knowing when to pause and listen.”
He credits his teaching style to consistency and care: showing up every day with clarity, curiosity, and a genuine belief in the transformative power of education.
A quote from Imam Ali—someone Abbas views as a guiding voice—captures how he sees his role as an educator:
"You presume you are a small entity, but within you is enfolded the entire universe."
“To me, that speaks to what education really is,” he said. “It’s not just about downloading facts—it’s about waking up the universe within each student. My job is simply to help them realize it’s there.”
About this award
The Academic Teaching and Excellence Award is one of UFred’s highest faculty honours. It recognizes educators who go above and beyond to engage their students, create inclusive learning environments, and make a lasting impact on the UFred academic community.
These recipients don’t just teach—they inspire. They support students through challenges, spark curiosity, and help learners connect ideas to real-world practice. This award celebrates that kind of transformational teaching, and both Dr. Manjak and Mr. Abbas exemplify it in every way.
At UFred, we believe that great education starts with great educators. Our faculty members bring not only academic expertise, but also a deep commitment to student success and real-world application. For prospective students seeking a flexible, supportive, and high-quality learning experience, our award-winning instructors are just one of the many reasons UFred stands out.