When you walk into a tutorial and are greeted with a warm smile, inviting energy, and maybe even a thoughtfully selected snack, you might just be in one of Rachel Su’s classes.
Rachel, a Queen’s BEd alum and current graduate student, has been named the 2025 recipient of the Rose A. Freeman Memorial Award—an honour that recognizes outstanding teaching assistants in the Faculty of Education who go above and beyond to support student learning. And if you’ve been lucky enough to have her as your TA, you’ll know this award couldn’t have gone to anyone more deserving.
In her role as a teaching assistant, Rachel created a space that felt safe, inclusive, and genuinely welcoming. As one student said, "Rachel immediately created a safe and welcoming place to ask questions and learn collaboratively as a group. With her friendliness and warmth, she always encouraged active participation and made everyone in the class feel comfortable."
Whether it was through fun and quirky attention grabbers, clearly structured lessons, or tutorial slides that were both well-designed and thoughtfully organized, Rachel turned her sessions into something students looked forward to.
Rachel’s impact didn’t stop when the lesson ended. She made herself available before and after every class, offering time, snacks, encouragement, and practical support. She fielded questions about everything from course content to placement nerves and job searching.
“Rachel gave us the space to talk about our fears for our upcoming placements,” another student shared. “She offered advice from her own experiences, stayed behind until every single student’s questions were answered, and made us feel like she genuinely cared.”
That care wasn’t just felt by students. Rachel’s course instructor described her as “an exceptional professional,” noting her initiative, responsiveness, and deep commitment to equity and inclusion. “She stands out,” the professor shared. “Rachel’s passion for social justice and accessibility is woven into everything she does. Every student feels seen and heard.”
The Rose A. Freeman Memorial Award, established in memory of Dr. John G. Freeman’s mother, recognizes teaching assistants who embody a true commitment to learning, mentorship, and motivation. Rachel exemplifies all of these qualities and more.
Her ability to turn theory into meaningful discussion, to foster a learning environment where every voice is valued, and to show up consistently with empathy and excellence makes her a beacon for future educators.
Congratulations, Rachel! Thank you for making the Faculty of Education a better, kinder, and more inspiring place to learn.