Lee Martin (BEd ’12) is known for making a difference as an educator.

The elementary school teacher and Brock graduate recently earned a 2025 Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance (OUSA) Teaching Award of Excellence for his work as an instructor in the University’s Faculty of Education.

Each year OUSA, a provincial advocacy group representing about 160,000 post-secondary students, asks member schools to nominate an educator who has had an impact on the academic careers of students.

The Brock University Students’ Union (BUSU) put forward Martin’s name after receiving multiple student nominations citing his dedication, inspiration, kindness and humour in the classroom.

Recognized for his engaging teaching style, Martin consistently finds innovative ways to make learning enjoyable for children in his elementary school classroom and the future educators he shapes at Brock.

“Teaching is not about filling minds with information but about igniting curiosity, nurturing confidence and empowering students to believe in their own potential,” said Martin.

He has received several accolades throughout his career, including the Ontario Teachers Insurance Plan’s Beginning Teacher Award in 2016, the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence in STEM in 2018 and the Brock Faculty of Education Distinguished Graduate Award in 2020.

“This award is not just a recognition of my work; it is a testament to the brilliance, resilience and passion of the students who inspire me every day,” he said of being recognized by OUSA. “Through them, I am able to support and empower children across the country. I am forever thankful for this.”

Beyond his teaching career, Martin and the Education Foundation of Niagara founded the Computers4Change, a charity that has raised more than $250,000 to provide technology resources for schools across Canada.

OUSA formally recognized the 2025 award recipients at the Partners in Higher Education Dinner on Tuesday, April 8 in Toronto.