I am delighted to announce the appointment of Nicola Winstanley as the new Associate Dean, Journalists & Writers, in the Faculty of Media & Creative Arts.   

Nicola is an award-winning educator with a deep commitment to student success and engagement. As a Media Foundation professor and co-ordinator, she designed curriculum to meet the needs of young learners exploring academic pathways and mature learners changing careers. She was an early adopter of Making Accessible Media, incorporating it into core program curriculum to prepare learners for the evolving demands of industry. Media Foundation graduates frequently pursue additional credentials at Humber, which is testament to the strength of Nicola’s efforts inside and outside the classroom. The College recognized Nicola’s overall contributions to Humber with a 2018 President’s Award for Teaching Excellence. 

Outside of Humber, Nicola maintains an active writing practice. Though she is known primarily as the author of six critically acclaimed children’s books—including the Governor General’s Award-nominated How to Give Your Cat a Bath in Five Easy Steps—Nicola also writes poetry, fiction and comix for adults. Her newest book, the short story collection Smoke, is forthcoming from Wolsak & Wynn in May 2024. 

Nicola holds an MFA in creative writing from the University of British Columbia and an MA in English specializing in Renaissance literature from the University of Auckland. She further developed her expertise in Shakespeare over four years of doctoral studies at the University of Toronto.  

Nicola’s first day as Associate Dean will be November 13, 2023. Please join me in welcoming her to her new role.   

Guillermo Acosta
Senior Dean, Faculty of Media & Creative Arts