Keith Ailey Named OAEA Post-Secondary Art Educator of the Year

Congratulations to Keith Ailey (Contract Lecturer, Thunder Bay), who has been named Post-Secondary Art Educator of the Year by the Ontario Art Education Association (OAEA).

Keith—an instructor of I/S and P/J Curriculum & Instruction in Visual Arts and a long-time Thunder Bay high school art teacher—will be formally celebrated at an online awards event in February 2026.

As noted by the OAEA adjudicators, “Keith exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding teacher who inspires and nurtures creativity, confidence, and excellence in his students. His distinguished career and exceptional contributions to art education at Lakehead Public Schools and his contributions at Lakehead University stand as an inspiring example celebrated by this award.”

This honour recognizes educators who demonstrate exceptional commitment to fostering creativity, critical thinking, and artistic skill in all learners.

Reflecting on the award, Keith shared: “I strongly believe that being an educator is the greatest job in the world. I am honoured and humbled with this award, but more importantly I am inspired to continue improving and refining my work in education. I strive to continuously explore new methods of instruction, assessment and classroom management, and I am always excited to share these with teacher candidates.”

Keith is widely recognized for creating engaging, inclusive, and empowering learning environments. Lakehead Teacher Candidate Gabrielle Rattray notes: “The dedication, effort, and passion he invests in his students is immediately apparent… Thanks to Keith, I now feel far more confident and prepared to step into a classroom of my own.”

Congratulations, Keith, on this well-deserved achievement!