NSAC Faculty member recognized for teaching excellence

NSAC alumnus and owner of Cloverfield Animal Behaviour Services, Heather Logan is the 2011 recipient of the university’s annual Faculty Award for Teaching Excellence.

Since 1994, NSAC has publicly recognized the innovative and outstanding teaching that takes place every day on the university’s campus both in and out of the classroom; helping students realize their full potential.

“Heather’s experience with a wide array of learners has enabled her to develop and teach courses that not only have a solid evidence-based foundation in behavioral science, but also thoroughly engage students in the learning process,” said NSAC Co-President Dr. Leslie MacLaren.  “We’re very pleased that she earned this award in recognition of her efforts.”

(L to R) Heather Logan and NSAC Co-President Dr. Leslie MacLaren

A 1970 graduate of NSAC with an Animal Science Technician diploma, Heather began teaching in the former Animal Health Technology program in 1989 and more recently in 2006, began lecturing as a sessional instructor for NSAC in the Companion Animal Enterprise Management program.

A course in operant conditioning behavior analysis, Heather’s specialty, was created and offered by Heather for the first time last year for the department of Continuing Education. This innovative and well-received course is a 12 week, three-hour lecture lab course teaching students how to apply operant training behavior techniques. This method of training is applicable to several species including not only companion animals but livestock, research and zoo species.

Heather received an award for Top Canadian Correctional Services Program for 1999, 2007 and 2009 for her Pawsitive Directions Canine Program.  In this program, women offenders have an opportunity to build a relationship with a rescue dog and ultimately learn training methods with a goal to ready the dog for placement with people in need of service dogs; a mutually-beneficial program for the women and the animals. 

“Inspiring, uplifting, diligent, consistently effective” and with a “drive to teach” were phrases and ways in which Heather Logan has been described by her students and supporters. From Heather’s teaching philosophy she writes “students gain skills asking questions. They are encouraged to explore opportunities to make a difference.”  Heather adds interest by using direct examples she has experienced in the industry.  What is most striking in reading student comments on Heather Logan’s contribution to their education is how Heather has positively impacted their present as well as their future as students believed she cared and had a vision for their future. She gave of her herself 100 per cent.

One student wrote “I believe everything happens for a reason and I know my timing at NSAC was perfectly planned so I would be able to learn what I needed to from whom I needed to.”

NSAC is a specialized university that cultivates learning and research, focusing on improving and sustaining our environment for the health and well-being of society.