Dr. Marcus Law honoured with 2025 President's Teaching Award
Dr. Marcus Law, Associate Dean, MD Program is one of two recipients of the 2025 President's Teaching Awards – the university’s highest honour for teaching excellence, educational innovation and educational leadership alongside a commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility.
Dr. Law, who is also an associate professor in the Department of Family & Community Medicine, is deeply committed to educational innovation. Much of his academic work focuses on understanding how medical students develop expertise and using that insight to design more effective, engaging, and inclusive curriculum. His efforts have led to major changes in how medical education is delivered, moving beyond traditional lectures to embrace technology-enhanced learning, self-directed learning, and other modern teaching approaches.
“The aim of my research is to continuously address the evolving needs of learners and educators in a rapidly changing healthcare landscape and endeavour to create dynamic learning environments that empower individuals and strengthen communities,” said Dr. Law.
As Associate Dean of the MD Program, Dr. Law has made a profound impact on undergraduate medical education. He spearheaded the development and implementation of the new Foundations Curriculum, transforming the first two years of the MD Program. This groundbreaking reform integrates case-based learning, technology, and equity-focused content to better prepare students for the evolving demands of healthcare.
Dr. Law is dedicated to fostering a supportive learning environment grounded in equity, diversity, inclusion, Indigeneity, and accessibility (EDIIA). Through his research on topics such as competition in specialty choice, shadowing culture, and diversity in medical school orientation, he seeks to understand and improve the student experience. He applies these principles to ensure learners from all social identities and abilities feel welcomed within the MD Program. In 2023, reflecting his commitment to EDIIA, he established the Marcus Law Inclusive Community Endowed Award, which recognizes a graduating medical student who has contributed to fostering inclusivity and community within the medical school environment.
“Dr. Law displays leadership excellence that is grounded in fostering a sense of belonging and in advocacy efforts rooted in lived experiences and open discussions with students,” says former student Dr. Calandra Li. “He is, without a doubt, one of the best mentors I have had the privilege of working with and learning from.”
Beyond the university, Dr. Law has served as President and now Past President of the Canadian Association for Medical Education, where he has championed national initiatives in faculty development and equity in health professions education. He has mentored many medical educators, establishing a community of practice for educators to promote excellence and scholarship across all facets of medical education.
“Dr. Law exemplifies the values of this award through his visionary leadership, innovative teaching, and unwavering dedication to student success,” said Dr. Patricia Houston, Vice Dean of Medical Education. “His impact is felt not only at U of T but across the national and international medical education community.”
