About the Last Lecture Series:
Inspiring Education The concept of a Last Lecture became internationally recognized in 2007 with Dr. Randy Pausch, who gave his "Last Lecture" speech on September 18, 2007 at Carnegie Mellon.
Alumni Relations hosts our own Last Lecture to give students and former students an opportunity to celebrate the instructors who have made their UAlberta education unique and outstanding. Our Alumni Impact Survey found that when asked which U of A experience had the greatest impact on them, the overwhelming response was experience with faculty. This is both a response to that finding, and an opportunity to connect students with alumni around a shared appreciation for educational quality.
What you said
"Brian is one of the few remaining professors who takes the time to get to know each student, what motivates them, and what drives them to succeed. His passion for what he teaches is inspiring, and he is easily one of the most genuine human beings you will ever meet. Brian is a professor akin to professors of old, who represent everything honourable about the university experience; those who strive to not only teach but also inspire."
"Dr. Maraj's excitement and energy caused students to actively participate. Dr. Maraj would personalize his lectures to celebrate individuals' unique abilities and accomplishments. He is not just a lecturer but is a true performer- as he would say: 'it's show time!' "
"Maraj is the type of professor that can light up an entire lecture theatre with his charisma, enthusiasm, and passion. He is not only a lecturer; he is a performer. Dr. Maraj would be an excellent professor to deliver the last lecture because of his exceptional ability to captivate an audience with his exhilarating and thought provoking lectures. If he were given this opportunity, he would not only give a phenomenal lecture, but he would give a triumphant performance."
"GO BRIAN GO!! I expect you to pull that unicycle out for the lecture when you win!!! You are a true performer. #physedlove"
About Professor Maraj
Dr. Brian Maraj is a Professor in the Faculty of Physical Education and Recreation as well as the Academic Dean of St. Joseph's College at the University of Alberta. He came to the University of Alberta in 1999 and his courses include: Skill Acquisition & Performance and Motor Development. Dr. Maraj has won his Faculty's Award of Merit for undergraduate teaching, was awarded a McCalla Professorship for the integration of teaching and research, and also received the University of Alberta Students' Union Award for Leadership in Undergraduate Teaching (SALUTE).
He enjoys playing squash and for the last five years has organized and participated in a squash marathon fundraiser (affectionately known as the Marajathon). The event honors former students who have suffered spinal cord injuries and all funds raised are donated to Free2BMe, which supports programs for kids and teens with disabilities.
He obtained his Bachelor's degree from McMaster University (Hamilton, ON) and Masters degree from Western University (London, ON). He holds a Ph.D. in Kinesiology from the University of Waterloo (Faculty of Applied Health Sciences) and his area of research and teaching is motor learning and control.
Voting is open now until March 20. We encourage you to vote multiple times for our very own Brian Maraj, but you are limited to one vote per day.