Courtney Harper Honoured with Award of Recognition

Western Engineering awards of recognition have been designed to acknowledge exceptional commitment and contributions to Western Engineering by a faculty and/or staff member. Courtney Harper, graduate coordinator, department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE), is an outstanding recipient of this year's award. 

Harper is a dedicated team member who consistently demonstrates excellence in her job and provides exceptional support to ECE faculty, staff and students. 

“I feel humbled to be recognized by both faculty and staff members in ECE,” said Harper. “I appreciate thecourtney-harper-ins relationships I have built here and like being a go-to person for everything in graduate studies.” 

She was initially hired as a Graduate Coordinator for the MEng program, but due to staffing challenges in the department over the past few years, she also took on the responsibility of managing both the professional and research programs at the same time. 

This was a massive undertaking compounded by the effects of COVID-19 less than a year in her position. Nevertheless, she managed both roles with composure and grace and played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth and efficient functioning of the department. 

“I feel committed to this work because I care a lot about the students. It can be difficult to navigate the university system, and I hope to be someone they can trust to guide them,” shared Harper. 

One of her colleagues said, “To say the last few years were difficult does not begin to describe the scope of challenges the department has faced. Courtney has provided consistent support and guidance with her extensive knowledge and professional manner and has proven invaluable during the many transitions.” 

Katarina Grolinger, ECE assistant professor, confirms that Harper goes above and beyond to support the department and is relied upon to solve many issues. 

“Courtney is very considerate and compassionate while focusing on meeting academic objectives,” she said. “This is an amazing characteristic when interacting with students as it helps them through stressful times.” 

Harper is well known for her excellent communication skills, interpersonal skills and strong work ethic. 

“I was hired during the pandemic and Courtney took time to walk me through the procedures to bring in a team of international graduate students and set up a world-class research program,” shared professor Joshua Pearce. “I appreciate how welcoming she has been in making them feel part of the Western family during what is often an extremely stressful time in their lives.” 

“Courtney has gone far beyond the normal expectations in helping me deal with unconventional funding sources, programs and visiting students. She always has a smile and is a pleasure to work with,” he added. 

Harper is respected for her patience, candid approach and dedication to assisting all team members in meeting a higher standard of job performance. 

“Her concern for student welfare is genuine,” said Jayshri Sabarinathan, ECE associate professor.  “Due to the pandemic, many students faced delays, funding and health issues. Courtney has been instrumental in finding solutions and navigating complex rules and conditions to benefit the students.” 

Harper is valued for fostering Western’s core values of integrity, respect and commitment to service.  

“She has taken a strong interest in Western Engineering EDI initiatives and promotes these initiatives in her daily work,” remarked ECE administrative officer, Michelle Wagler. “She continues to be an inspiration for my colleagues and myself daily and we are blessed and proud to have Courtney working on our team.” 

Western Engineering congratulates Courtney Harper on her positive impact over the last year. The Awards of Recognition consist of acknowledgment on a plaque, gift and a certificate for the winner(s), presented at the annual awards banquet on Thursday, June 1, 2023.