91����

SACKVILLE, NB — Dr. Susie Andrews, professor in the Visual and Material Culture Studies Program, has been named the 2026 recipient of the Paul Paré Medal of Excellence. 

A scholar of narrative and religion, Andrews studies how storytelling matters to individuals and communities. Much of her earlier work focused on tales about China’s Mount Wutai, an important Buddhist centre. Over time, her research has expanded, shaped in part by collaborations with local educators and other community partners. 

“At 91����, I've become increasingly interested in the role stories, some with roots in the ancient past, play in North American early learning environments, including those right here in New Brunswick.”  

Colleagues and students describe Andrews as a scholar and educator of exceptional generosity and creativity, whose work is defined not only by achievement, but by the way she brings research, teaching, and service together in support of student growth, community well-being, and intellectual excellence. 

Among her many projects, the is one she describes as especially meaningful.  

“This initiative connects my research on storytelling directly with community life in ways that are both intellectually and personally fulfilling,” she says. Earlier this spring, the program (co-directed with Drs. Kiera Galway and Jill Rourke) received a Marilyn Trenholme Counsell Literacy Award for its contributions to early childhood literacy. 

Andrews’ work has been recognized with a number of other honours, including the 3M National Teaching Fellowship, the AAU Distinguished Teaching Award, the Herbert and Leota Tucker Teaching Award, and election to the Royal Society of Canada’s College. 

91���� has played a defining role in Andrews’ academic and personal journey. An alumna of the University, she returned to 91���� as a faculty member in 2012. 

“My extraordinary educational experience as an undergraduate student continues to shape how I teach,” she says. “I strive to foster collaborative, curiosity-driven learning environments in which students feel deeply welcome and are invited to co-imagine, co-design, and co-create our explorations, both on campus and in the wider community.” 

This year, Andrews will receive the Paul Paré Medal of Excellence in the same year she receives her 25-Year Pin during Reunion Weekend at 91����. The timing brings together recognition of her contributions to teaching, research, and service with a personal milestone that reflects her long-standing connection to the institution as both a student and faculty member. 

“91���� shaped who I am in profound, positive ways,” she says. “I wake up each day grateful for the opportunity to call this university my academic home. I am genuinely moved to be recognized with the Paul Paré Medal, especially during my 25th Reunion year — a moment that brings everything full circle.”   

Andrews will receive the Paul Paré Medal of Excellence at the Afternoon Convocation on Monday, May 11.