Chunlei Lu is urging the next generation of Brock graduates to shine brightly in an ever-changing world.

Speaking on Thursday, June 12 during Brock’s 117th Convocation, Lu used a poignant metaphor in Buddhist philosophy to remind the new alumni to practice kindness and empathy as they take their next steps.

“We often see the different shapes of waves, but we don’t always recognize their same essence. Just like water, no matter how the wind blows creating different shapes, we are all the same,” said the Professor of Educational Studies and 2025 Faculty of Education Award for Teaching Excellence recipient.

Lu has studied and taught around the world while developing an innovative student-centred approach to teacher education through scholarship spanning seven universities in China, the United States and Canada.

Through his research, he explores the interconnected fields of education, culture and health with a specific focus on health and physical education, positive education, mindfulness, holistic health and wisdom education.

Lu’s broad range of international experiences has led Lu down a path of openness and flexibility in his approach to education. His belief that “teaching must serve learning” is central to his teaching practice.

At the heart of Lu’s teaching philosophy is the ancient Confucian notion that every human being has the capacity to learn (knowing) — and at a higher level, to enjoy learning — regardless of their abilities.

“How much do we truly let students be at the centre of education? Research shows that students thrive when they become the driver of their own learning,” he said.

Sharon Stevens-Lay (left) and Shauna Dale are the co-recipients of the 2025 Faculty of Education Award for Excellence in Sessional Teaching.

This philosophy has led to the development of several innovative, student-centred models of teaching and learning: the New Sail model, a framework designed for classroom-based instruction in schools; and the Easy-Play model, which aims to help every individual enjoy healthy active lifestyles.

Along with Lu, the Faculty also recently recognized Instructors of Educational Studies Sharon Stevens-Lay and Shauna Daley as co-recipients of the 2025 Faculty of Education Sessional Award for Excellence.

Sharon Stevens-Lay was recognized for her compassionate and caring approach to students’ personal and professional development as well as her ability to bridge theory with practice.

With decades of experience in the second-largest school board in Canada — as both an elementary and secondary teacher and in numerous leadership roles at the school and board levels — she brings a wealth of practical insight to her teaching.

Her expertise in research-based teaching methods, leadership models, and inclusive pedagogies are especially impactful in her mentorship of both teacher candidates and colleagues.

Daley, a passionate and skilled educator, was honoured for her innovative approach and significant impact in the classroom inspiring the next generation of educators through creativity.

Through rich experiential, collaborative and reflective learning opportunities, Daley offers visual arts instruction using an inclusive teaching approach that centres social justice perspectives.

Daley said she aims to help students overcome their reservations while sparking their curiosity.

“I work to foster their natural inquisitiveness in teaching, learning and creating, and introduce them to the world of possibility in life, education and art.”