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Peter Pelzer, associate professor at the Department of Human Geography and Spatial Planning, has been nominated by the (ISO) for the for Higher Education.

In addition to teacher, Peter is also the programme director of Continuing Education at the Faculty of Geosciences, and he is involved in the Urban Futures Studio and the Utrecht Young Academy. In 2023, Peter already received Utrecht ľ¹Ï¸£ÀûÓ°ÊÓ’s Teacher of the Year Award.

Peter: I am deeply honoured.

It might be obvious: but I am deeply honoured to get this nomination, which is extra special because it is organised by students (ISO), just like the nomination by the V.U.G.S. (Study association for Human Geography & Spatial Planning) where this all started. I see this as an appreciation of my approach in which teaching and research are almost indivisible and constantly intertwined. I am always keen on insights and examples that I can use in the first-year course ‘Strijd om de Ruimte’. For example, I am currently a member of an advisory committee on climate adaptation and spatial planning; the insights from this are incredibly relevant to students.

I also think it is important to emphasise that although this is an individual award, education always happens in collaboration. Without the amazing Mixed Classroom and ‘Strijd om de Ruimte’ teaching teams that I have worked with, this nomination would never have been possible.

ISO Teacher of the Year election 2024

The aim of the ISO Teacher of the Year election is to spotlight inspiring and great teaching in higher education. This year, the election will pay extra attention to innovation within the teacher’s field. Who out of the four finalists will win this year, will be announced on 25 March.