Richard Barwell passes the torch to new dean Francis Bangou

Richard Barwell, who served with remarkable passion and dedication, made significant contributions towards raising the profile of the Faculty of Education. Under his leadership, the Faculty strengthened its programs while seeing its research initiatives flourish, both nationally and internationally. We offer him our warmest thanks for his commitment and the many achievements during his term.

“I'm delighted that Francis Bangou has been appointed Dean of the Faculty of Education, succeeding me in this role.  Francis was a member of my team in three different positions, including Vice-Dean of Governance and Student Affairs. In the latter role in particular, I observed his exceptional leadership qualities. He supported student associations and groups, for example, with tact and love, allowing the voices of our student population to have a greater place. Francis also played a crucial role in the development of our Equity Action Plan and helped the Faculty navigate the complex terrain of racism in our society and within our Faculty. I am confident that Francis has the necessary and relevant values and qualities to ensure the continued growth of our Faculty in the coming years.” said Richard Barwell

With his substantial academic experience, Francis Bangou has enjoyed a varied career. Holding a master’s in French as a foreign language from Université Michel de Montaigne, a second master’s in French and pedagogy from Kent State University and a doctorate in education (second and foreign languages) from Ohio State University, he is an acknowledged expert in his field. Since coming to the University of Ottawa in 2007, he has held various teaching and administrative positions and led the EducLang language and education research group.

In his research, Bangou highlights the key importance of second-language teachers and learners adapting to unfamiliar teaching and learning environments. His work also focuses on integration of digital technology in second language teaching. His sustained commitment to improving language instruction methods and integrating new technology in education has positioned the Faculty of Education as a leader in these areas. 

Respected by his peers and valued by his students, Bangou was honoured with a uOttawa Excellence in Education Prize in 2022-2023, and an Award for Excellence in Teaching in 2021. These distinctions recognized not only his outstanding work in teaching, research and pedagogy, but also his major contribution to equity, diversity and inclusion in our university community. 

As dean, Bangou is calling for a break with the status quo in the name of progress: “It’s essential to disrupt conventional wisdom to make room for difference, inclusion, innovation and creativity,” he says.  

In taking on this new role, he is grateful and eager, and wishes to work closely with the entire university community. “The future that extends before us is rich in possibilities, and I’m driven by boundless optimism and unfailing dedication to create a learning and work environment that enables the growth of all members of our community,” he says. “Together, we’ll build on our past success, take on new challenges and make a major, lasting contribution locally, nationally and internationally.” 

We’re sure that under Dean Bangou’s leadership, the Faculty of Education will continue to flourish and raise its profile, thus strengthening its key role in training teachers and promoting academic excellence. Join us in giving our new dean a warm welcome and wishing him much success in his new position.