2012 - Dr. Michelle Lafrance

Department of Psychology
BSc (St. FX), MA (York), PhD (UNB)

Dr. Michelle Lafrance is known for her diverse teaching techniques. She uses videos, discussions, role-play, and guest speakers to underscore the relevance of the course content.  She extends learning to outside the classroom by engaging students in activism, volunteerism, and presentations in the wider community for organizations like the Schizophrenia Society and the Fredericton Sexual Assault Crisis Centre.

“From the moment you set foot in Dr. Lafrance’s classes, you can tell she loves to teach,” says one student nominator. “She is able to bring the class to life with her enthusiasm, skillful efforts to engage students, and her use of diverse teaching technologies. She puts tremendous effort into her work.”

Lafrance was previously recognized with the Dr. Sheila Andrew Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2006 – an award created by the St. Thomas University Student Union.

Her research and teaching interests are rooted in critical, postmodern, and feminist approaches, exploring the social construction of distress and wellbeing.