Brock University’s Faculty of Education is proud to celebrate Martyna Pacyniak, recipient of the 2026 Helen G. Mitchell Award from the Ontario Modern Language Teachers’ Association. This award is presented to one graduating student in each Faculty of Education who has demonstrated excellence in both academic and practicum components of the pre-service year, along with the qualities of a potentially outstanding French-as-a-Second-Language or International Languages teacher.

For Dr. Rochelle Guida, Martyna’s FSL teacher education instructor, this recognition is especially meaningful. Dr. Guida is extremely proud of Martyna and the professionalism, initiative, and passion for FSL education that she demonstrated throughout the course. One moment that stood out was when Martyna reached out to ask Dr. Guida to review an article she was preparing for the Canadian Association of Second Language Teachers on the integration of artificial intelligence in FSL education. That initiative, intellectual curiosity, and commitment to advancing the field reflect the very qualities this award seeks to honour.

We wish Martyna continued success in her future research endeavors and teaching as a FSL teacher candidate. Bonne continuation, Martyna!