Instructor Bob Hoffos Wins 2023 NISOD Excellence Award
In recognition of his unwavering commitment to education and innovative teaching methods, Olds College of Agriculture & Technology instructor Bob Hoffos has been awarded the prestigious 2023 NISOD Excellence Award by the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development (NISOD).
Hoffos has been an integral part of Olds College for more than two decades, dedicating his expertise and passion to education. He serves as an instructor in multiple programs, including the Land & Water Resources Diploma program and the Bachelor of Applied Science Degree in Golf Course Management. Before joining the College, he spent four years as a consultant for the Alberta Government, specializing in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) training.
Throughout his career, Hoffos has demonstrated a remarkable dedication to his field of study, applying GIS and remote sensing concepts to real-world challenges. He is known for his ability to transform raw data into meaningful insights, often presented in the form of maps—both traditional and online. His enthusiasm for teaching and learning has left an indelible mark on students and colleagues alike.
Gord Ahner, Hoffos’ colleague and nominator, shares why Hoffos was a deserving recipient of the NISOD Excellence Award: "The passion for his field of study along with relentless empathy for his students were immediately recognized and have only amplified to this day." He adds, "Bob regularly collaborates and shares his passions with other instructors around technology and teaching and learning, whether it is collaborating on assignments together, discussing new ideas for research, or reaching out to campus facilities and other groups to create custom maps or progress their database”
Hoffos’ commitment to personalized learning experiences, technology integration, and his active involvement in campus activities sets him apart as an exceptional instructor. His influence extends beyond the classroom, as he mentors students in the Drone Club and works on projects that have a real-world impact.
“Receiving this award has been a very honouring and humbling experience,” comments Hoffos. “It has made me reflect on my over 20 years at Olds College, the great people I work with, the opportunities I have been given to work with technology, and the wonderful students I have instructed.”
The NISOD Excellence Award is highly competitive, recognizing outstanding contributions. Hoffos's selection is a testament to his remarkable achievements and dedication to education and technology integration. Olds College takes immense pride in his accomplishment. Hoffos was presented with the 2023 NISOD Excellence Award during a celebration dinner in Austin, Texas, on May 28, 2023, accompanied by his wife, Colleen, and colleague, Gord Ahner.
Congratulations to Hoffos for his well-deserved recognition!