Professor Anwar Mhajne Receives 2026 Louise F. Hegarty Award for Excellence in Teaching
The faculty member was honored at the 2026 Convocation Mass.
Note: During the Convocation Mass, Vice President for Academic Affairs Peter Ubertaccio read the following citation bestowing the Louise F. Hegarty Award for Excellence in Teaching upon Professor of Political Science & International Studies Anwar Mhajne.
The Louise F. Hegarty Award for Excellence in Teaching is given each year to a full-time faculty member whose teaching has had a marked influence on the lives of Stonehill students. The Committee on Excellence in Teaching selects the outstanding professor from those nominated by students and faculty members. The award is named in honor of one of Stonehill’s most accomplished teachers and the recipient stands as a symbol of the entire faculty’s commitment to teaching and academic excellence. At this 2026 Convocation Mass, Stonehill College is proud to bestow the Louise F. Hegarty Award for Excellence in Teaching on Professor Anwar Mhajne, Professor of Political Science & International Studies.
Professor Anwar Mhajne is an extraordinary educator whose teaching challenges students to think critically, engage deeply with complex issues, and connect academic theory to the realities of the world around them. Her innovative course design incorporates debates, digital storytelling, podcasts, video production, virtual reality experiences, and other active-learning approaches that foster intellectual curiosity, creativity, and meaningful engagement. By blending theory with practice, she creates learning experiences that are both rigorous and relevant.
A hallmark of Professor Mhajne's teaching is her commitment to continual improvement and responsiveness to student needs. She cultivates a classroom environment built on dialogue, reflection, and mutual respect, where students are encouraged to share feedback, explore diverse perspectives, and take ownership of their learning. Her willingness to adapt assignments, provide individualized support, and experiment with new pedagogical approaches reflects a sustained dedication to teaching excellence and student success.
Professor Mhajne's impact extends well beyond the classroom. Through research mentorship, career guidance, graduate school preparation, and support for experiential learning opportunities, she helps students discover new interests, develop confidence as scholars, and pursue ambitious academic and professional goals. Her mentorship has opened doors to internships, research projects, conference presentations, publications, and advanced study, leaving a lasting influence on the lives of her students.
Drawing on her global perspective and expertise, Professor Mhajne creates inclusive spaces where diverse viewpoints are welcomed, marginalized voices are amplified, and respectful engagement with complex issues is encouraged. She inspires students to become informed citizens, compassionate leaders, and lifelong learners who approach the world with empathy, intellectual rigor, and a commitment to justice.
Above all, Professor Mhajne embodies a profound passion for teaching and learning. Whether advancing innovative instructional practices, mentoring students, supporting campus initiatives, or contributing her scholarly expertise to broader public conversations, she exemplifies the transformative power of education. Through her creativity, compassion, and unwavering commitment to student growth, Professor Mhajne has made an enduring impact on the Stonehill community.
And so, it is with profound pride that today, Stonehill recognizes Professor Anwar Mhajne for her outstanding teaching in service to our students.