Massage Therapy professor recognized with Educator of the Year award

Congratulations to Tracie Skolny, part-time professor in Fanshawe’s Massage Therapy program, who was named the 2026 Educator of the Year by the Registered Massage Therapists’ Association of Ontario (RMTAO).

“My first reaction was disbelief,” said Tracie, after learning she received the award. “I had that classic imposter‑syndrome moment of thinking, ‘It can’t actually be me!’ I work alongside so many talented educators and I don’t feel any more deserving than any of them. Once the shock settled, though, I felt incredibly honoured and grateful.”

RMTAO’s Educator of the Year Award recognizes Registered Massage Therapists who are academic or clinical educators in Ontario who promote professionalism, excellence in learning, provide innovative teaching techniques, go over and above the normal requirements of an educator and celebrate in the successes of their students (source: RMTAO website).

“Tracie’s dedication, passion and commitment to excellence are evident in everything she does,” says Leah Warner, academic coordinator for the Massage Therapy program. “Her contributions to our team continue to strengthen our program, inspire our students, and uplift all of us who are fortunate enough to work alongside her.”

Tracie was also recognized in 2025 with the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) Teacher of the Year award. Leah shared that these awards “speak volumes about Tracie’s impact and leadership in massage therapy education. To see her receive back‑to‑back honours from two major professional organizations is truly remarkable.”

For Tracie, the real reward in teaching is not receiving an award, recognition or accolades. The true reward is seeing potential awaken in a student and watching them begin to expect more of themselves.

“What inspired me to become an educator was a genuine passion for our profession and a desire to share that enthusiasm with others,” she said. “I’ve always been drawn to translating complex concepts into something accessible and empowering. Supporting learners as they build skill, confidence and professional identity is what motivates me every day.”

Congratulations, Tracie!