“My last year as an undergraduate was as an on-campus student and I enrolled in three courses taught by Dr. P. Whitney Lackenbauer (HIST 403A and HIST 403B, along with HIST 389). His enthusiasmfor the subject of Canadian History and the passionate manner in which he conveyed it was the most engaging experience of my time at the University. He consistently encouraged my exploration of certain essay ideas and provided insightful comments on all assignments I submitted. He often made himself available outside scheduled class periods and greatly impressed upon me the importance of objectivity in research and argument formulation as the distinguishing feature of the historian. My decision to pursue a Masters Degree in History was greatly influenced by the professionalism and respect he displayed towards the academic discipline of history.” (2005)
“Regarding professors who went “above and beyond” I have to cite professor Whitney Lackenbauer. When returning papers he always provided far more feedback than I had ever received from any other professor and has always made himself available to provide academic advice to students. As a research assistant for professor Lackenbauer, he has always tried to provide me with work that will develop me as an academic. As I mastered one skill, he moved me to another, more challenging task. Of course, this meant that he rarely has someone doing work which they find “easy” and probably often results in him having to pay for more hours of work than if he dedicated students to given tasks for the duration of their tenure as an RA. However, this generosity was instrumental in my academic development over the last year. As a result of my RA work as well as his coursework, I am much better prepared for my masters degree than many of my peers.” (2006)
“Two professors have played a pivotal role in shaping both my life at university and my future. Professor Whitney Lackenbauer is a fantastic teacher whose enthusiasm for history is palpable. He takes a personal interest in all of his students and truly cares about their personal and academic well being. He has cheerfully answered every question I have ever had and has inspired me to become a better historian. … What makes both of these professors special is the interest they take in their students and the encouragement they offer to any that seek it. To me, these are the two best professors in the Faculty of Arts. I truly appreciate all they have done for me, and have come to consider both of them as not only teachers and mentors, but friends.” (2008)
“Dr. Lackenbauer has been extremely influential on my studies. His 400 level Canadian History seminars not only broadened my knowledge on Canada’s past, but he hammered into us the skills, techniques, and abilities that have truly made me proud of my university career. Incredibly busy as he is, he demonstrated an incredible passion for his subject matter and an admirable attentiveness to his students. There were few lectures where my colleagues and myself did not depart with the feeling that we had just witnessed something very special. Very few professors inspire their students enough for them to create a Facebook page dedicated to how incredible his or her teaching and oratory skills are, and Whitney is certainly deserving of his!” (2010)
