Professor Louise Hickson from the Faculty of Health, Medicine and Behavioural Sciences

Told by Barbra (Bachelor of Science '91, Postgraduate Diploma in Audiology '92, Master of Business Administration '03, Doctor of Philosophy '17)

My favourite lecturer was Professor Louise Hickson, who was both my audiology lecturer and my PhD supervisor many years later. Professor Hickson was very encouraging of students to be curious and to ask questions. She taught me that audiology is a science and an art, and that despite the exciting technology and hearing devices audiologists can offer, the key aspect to making a difference in the lives of adults with hearing loss is to be person-and family-centred.

Her enthusiasm and passion for audiology kept me interested and motivated to work hard during my first postgraduate audiology degree. Her teaching reminded me to always check that the approaches I used as an audiologist would translate into the best possible outcomes for my clients and patients.

Her teaching stayed with me when I worked in clinical practice, so when I wanted to research how audiology services could be improved, she was the first person I approached to discuss the possibility of doing a PhD at UQ. She was my principal advisor for my PhD and my mentor when I became a research fellow.

I am now a senior lecturer in audiology at UQ myself and have been so fortunate to have continued to work with, and learn from, Louise. We have co-supervised PhD students together and collaborated on a range of research projects.

Louise has received numerous awards for her contributions to audiology, both research and teaching. It is a tremendous benefit to our audiology students to attend lectures from a recognised leader in the profession. I love seeing her help our students find their way as audiologists, just like she helped me over so many years.

Haegyeong (Hae) Hong from the Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences

Told by Nurul (Bachelor of Arts '21)

My favourite teacher is definitely Hong Haegyeong 선생님 because she made learning so easy, fun and engaging. I was looking forward for her classes every single week and wish I could continue learning in her class! Learning Korean is not easy AT ALL, but she effortlessly pulled off the lectures.

The best part: I met her on my graduation day as our ceremony was on the same day! 선생님, if this message is published and you’re reading this, I wish you all the best and may you always walk on a flowery path. Thank you for being a teacher that I can proudly brag to my friends about!

Dr Matthew Cipa from the Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences

Told by Andi (Bachelor of Journalism/Bachelor of Communication '23)

For many reasons, Dr Matthew Cipa is a favourite lecturer among myself and my friends. It was my final semester, and despite being in different years of study and slightly different programs to my friends, the 4 of us wound up in Dr Cipa's 'Introduction to Film and Television Studies' lecture and his 4–6pm tutorial.

From the outset, we were those students who never left the tutor hanging when they posed a question to the class. In no time, Dr Cipa labelled us the 'A-team'. Not for our thoughtfully considered answers, but for our delirious, 4pm-slump sillies and what we thought were well-timed, carefully cracked jokes that I'm going to choose to remember had the class laughing. For us, this was our moment.

Despite our comedic value, Dr Cipa guided us thoughtfully through a course that was new to us all and taught us the magic of film and the powerful messages that a simple scene, shadow, glance or score could convey.

For a few of us, this course was our last hurdle before graduating and Dr Cipa's encouragement and genuine passion for his area of study reignited our love of learning.

At the end of the semester, the A-team had grown to the full tutorial group and we spent part of our final class having a makeshift picnic to celebrate the end of the semester and, for some of us, the end of our time at university. On our way out, we all surprised Dr Cipa with hand-written notes, conveying the impact he had on our learning experience. I think I remember him becoming slightly emotional at our gratitude. To my knowledge, he still has those letters.

On the day of our graduation, the original A-team met up for a final time in the Great Court, and Dr Cipa took the time to come and see us off.

I now tutor a course at UQ where I aim to provide my students the same support and genuine care Dr Cipa had for our cohort.

Associate Professor
Marina Fortes from the Faculty of Science

Told by Kusumitha (Bachelor of Biotechnology '22)

Throughout my academic journey, I have had the privilege of learning from many dedicated educators. However, none have made as profound an impact on me as Associate Professor Marina Fortes. She stands out as my favourite lecturer to this day and continues to be an incredible mentor and supervisor in my research career.

One of the things that truly sets Associate Professor Fortes apart is her infectious enthusiasm for teaching. I vividly remember her classes on cattle genetics and animal science, especially during the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic. At the time, I was unable to travel to Australia and was stuck at home, far from campus and my peers.

She brought the world of cows and livestock to life through her virtual lectures, using innovative teaching methods and real-world examples that made complex concepts accessible and exciting.

Beyond her teaching, Associate Professor Fortes has played a pivotal role in my academic and professional development. As my supervisor, she has always been approachable, patient and genuinely interested in my progress. She provides not only academic guidance but also emotional support, especially during times of uncertainty or self-doubt.

Even as I continue my journey in Agricultural Biotechnology, I carry with me the lessons and values I learned from Associate Professor Fortes. Her ability to connect with students, her enthusiasm for teaching and her unwavering support have made her not just my favourite lecturer, but a mentor I deeply respect and admire.

Dr Jean-Louis Durand from the Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences

Told by Adam (Bachelor of International Studies '17)

Dr Jean-Louis Durand was the lecturer for my very first course in the international relations major (POLS1201: Introduction to International Relations). He played a pivotal role in shaping my academic journey.

His passion for the subject was infectious, and his ability to explain complex global dynamics with clarity and nuance drew me deeply into the field. What stood out most was the way he encouraged critical thinking and challenged us to look beyond headlines and simplistic narratives.

Dr Durand inspired me to engage thoughtfully with the world around me, and his teaching laid the foundation for a lasting interest in international affairs.

Dr Lance Newey from the Faculty of Business, Economics and Law

Told by Yajaira (Master of Entrepreneurship and Innovation '24)

I was blessed to have Dr Lance Newey as my lecturer for two consecutive semesters. His fresh energy, enthusiasm and deep passion for the subjects he taught made every class a truly recharging experience. He made us feel heard and valued, while consistently challenging us to cultivate a growth mindset – one that leads to continuous personal development.

One of my biggest takeaways from his class was learning that today’s business environment benefits greatly from systems thinking and the ability to skilfully balance opposing ideas, competing tensions and paradoxes by reflecting on their pros and cons to find the most feasible and impactful path forward – a path that promotes the wellbeing of businesses, societies and all stakeholders involved.

Beyond the classroom, the moments I shared with Dr Lance were just as impactful. His openness and empathy reminded us that learning isn’t just academic; it’s also about navigating real-life complexities with resilience and heart. You’ve gained an admirer in me – and in my entire MEI cohort.

Associate Professor Saiied Aminossadati from the Faculty of Engineering, Architecture and Information Technology

Told by Arlo (Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) '20)

My favourite lecturer is Associate Professor Saiied Aminossadati, known to his students as Amin. His commitment to teaching and learning was simply second to none. Being so involved with the first-year engineering program, he has shaped the careers of so many current and future engineers.

He is very kind and approachable both in and out of the classroom, and his humour in lectures shows he knows how to have fun too. He takes his commitments to education very personally, and the university is better off as a result.

Associate Professor Kelly Johnstone from the Faculty of Science

Told by Wenny (Master of Occupational Health and Safety Science student)

One of my favourite lecturers is Associate Professor Kelly Johnstone. Her way of explaining things makes it so easy to understand.

But what I admire most is how much she truly cares about her students. When I was doing my internship, it was my first time doing dust monitoring in real life, and I really needed support. Even though Kelly was far away at the time, she still did her best to help me. She made herself available whenever I needed guidance, and that meant so much to me.

I’ll never forget when she told me that I don't need to worry as much because she believes I can handle things better than I think. That really stuck with me – it made me feel seen and encouraged.