Donna Ellis

Dr. Donna Ellis serves as Director of the Centre for Teaching Excellence (CTE) at the University of Waterloo, guiding strategic initiatives focused on effective teaching methodologies, blended learning, and anti-racism in education. She holds a PhD and MA from the University of Waterloo, with undergraduate teaching experience in Communication Arts. Her research explores instructional innovations, institutional teaching culture, and leadership in educational development. Ellis is an active leader in international organizations, including the International Consortium for Educational Development (ICE) and the POD Network.

• Education:
  • PhD in Management Engineering, University of Waterloo
  • MA in Language and Professional Writing, University of Waterloo
• Key Roles:
  • President, International Consortium for Educational Development (2022–2025)
  • Former President, Professional and Organizational Development (POD) Network

Her research interests emphasize teaching culture transformation, institutional change, and leveraging educational centers for accreditation and quality assurance. Ellis has contributed to over 14 scholarly publications since 2010, focusing on topics like HR strategies for teaching centers and anti-racism in higher education. She received the Robert J. Menges Award (2013) for outstanding research in educational development.

Ellis has led strategic planning initiatives at institutions like Dalhousie University and Queen’s University, and her work includes co-authoring the 2011 Task Force on Innovative Teaching Practices report. She actively engages in editorial roles for journals such as To Improve the Academy and Innovative Higher Education.