School of Law and Government lecturers Dr Aisling De Paor and Dr Jules Gaspard were presented with President’s Awards for Excellence in Teaching and Learning at a ceremony in the Helix on Wednesday 9th May. The awards were extremely competitive with over 150 separate nominations across DCU this year.

Aisling was the presented with the overall award teaching excellence. The citation for Aisling’s award reads: “Life as a law student in DCU would not be the same without Aisling! Her dedication is astounding and her enthusiasm enthralling, but it is how much she cares about her students and their success that sets her apart. Her teaching is the epitome of excellence!”

“It is clear from the extra time and effort that Aisling puts in that she has a clear passion for the bettering of her students and is something that pushes and encourages her students to gain marks higher than they might have thought they were capable of achieving.”

“Aisling is a motivational and inspirational lecturer, one who encourages and promotes self-development in the lecture hall and outside. This nomination was promoted by my desire for Aisling to receive this award in recognition of her tireless dedication to her students.”

Jules was presented with the award for “New Lecturer/Tutor”. The citation for Jules’ award reads: “I am nominating Jules because he has made both my first and second semester so easy to enjoy. I honestly look forward to his lecture every week. I initially viewed it as a tedious chore to be learning about the American Political System, but I soon realised that Jules’ method of teaching, charisma and passion would make me love the subject.”

“His seminars were consistently engaging, full of variety and always thought provoking. Gaspard will affect many students’ views on the world of politics in its many forms due to his compelling style of lecturing.”

“Enjoyable classes, sharp suits and positivity – what more is needed!”