Broward College Names 2024-2025 Professors and Adjunct Professors of the Year

Twelve faculty members recognized for excellence in teaching, innovation, and student impact

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Broward College has named 12 exceptional faculty members as Professors of the Year and Adjunct Professors of the Year for the 2024-2025 academic year.

“These professors have worked hard and set themselves as examples for others to follow,” said Broward College President and CEO Torey Alston. “It’s only fitting that we honor that dedication to our students and College; their efforts are helping make Broward College the number one destination for academic excellence.”

The annual recognition celebrates full-time and adjunct faculty members who demonstrate excellence in teaching, foster student engagement and innovation, and contribute to the academic life of the College. Faculty are nominated by students and colleagues, and awardees are selected through a rigorous review and interview process led by the Professor of the Year Committee.

“These faculty members embody the best of Broward College’s commitment to student success,” said Dr. Jamonica Rolle, Broward College Interim Provost and Senior Vice President. “Through their expertise, creativity, and care, they are helping to shape the next generation of leaders in our community.”

The 2024-2025 awardees by campus are:

Professor of the Year: Dr. Ann Marie Laban
Health Science Pathway – Nursing
Dr. Ann Marie Laban is a dedicated healthcare professional with over 30 years of nursing experience, including more than 11 years at Broward College. She has worked across various clinical settings, providing compassionate care to patients, including those in critical or end-of-life stages. After decades of bedside nursing, Dr. Laban transitioned into academia, where she now applies her extensive clinical expertise. Currently, she is a Professor of Nursing at Broward College, teaching Fundamentals of Nursing to novice students. Her passion lies in mentoring and shaping the next generation of nurses. Outside academia, Dr. Laban has been happily married for 42 years and is a proud mother and grandmother. She cherishes family time, sings in her church choir, and serves as the Health and Wellness Director at her church. Dr. Laban remains committed to community service and volunteer work, exemplifying compassion and lifelong dedication to well-being.

Professor of the Year: Dr. Behnoush Memari
STEM Pathway – Science
Dr. Behnoush Memari has been a Chemistry professor at Broward College since 2000, teaching General Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Chemistry for Health Sciences. She emphasizes real-world applications, hands-on lab skills, and effective use of technology, achieving an 85.7% course success rate (March 2025). Dr. Memari developed four courses for the B.S. Science Education program and authored lab manuals promoting safe, efficient experiments. During the pandemic, she pioneered remote lab course creation and supported faculty with instructional lab videos. Her YouTube channel, with 149K+ views, extends her impact globally. With international teaching experience and dedication to student success, she continuously evolves her teaching strategies.

Adjunct Professor of the Year: Michael Darvin
STEM Pathway – Science
Michael Darvin, an adjunct professor at Broward College, teaches Anatomy and Physiology I and II and has been with Broward College for more than a decade. He holds a Bachelor’s in Biology from Nova Southeastern University and a Master’s in Biomedical Sciences from the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Known for his engaging, clear instruction and patience, he inspires students to appreciate the complexity of the human body. He also studies Ayurveda, enhancing his knowledge of holistic wellness. Passionate about discipline and growth, Professor Darvin pursues martial arts, piano, fitness, and stock trading, blending balance and purpose into his teaching to motivate students.

Adjunct Professor of the Year: Brian Turner
Public Safety Pathway-Crime Scene
Brian Turner is a Crime Scene Technician II with Broward County Sheriff’s Office and an International Association for Identification (IAI)-certified Crime Scene Investigator and AIA Tenprint Examiner, and has served at Broward College for more than four years. He holds a Bachelor’s in Biology from Ramapo College and a Master’s in Forensic Science from the University of New Haven. Pursuing a Doctorate in Forensic Science at Oklahoma State University (May 2025), his capstone focuses on standardizing crime scene investigator education. As an adjunct professor at Broward College and Tri-Tech Forensics instructor, he teaches advanced forensic investigation topics. Active in professional organizations, he contributes to conferences, regional training events, and FDIAI publications, advancing forensic practices.

Professor of the Year: Dr. Asha Nurse
STEM Pathway – Science
Dr. Asha Nurse has been a Physics Professor at Broward College since 2018, beginning as adjunct faculty. Passionate about education, she makes physics approachable by simplifying complex concepts and promoting critical thinking. She emphasizes the transferable skills physics offers, such as problem-solving, scientific documentation, and effective communication. Dr. Nurse fosters an inclusive classroom where questions are encouraged, and mistakes become learning opportunities. By emphasizing active engagement and adapting to diverse learning styles, she inspires students to overcome challenges and build confidence in their abilities.

Adjunct Professor of the Year: Dr. Olga Abiri
Health Science Pathway-Nursing
Dr. Olga Abiri, a nurse educator and academic leader, is passionate about shaping the future of nursing through evidence-based teaching and mentorship. She has been teaching at Broward College for less than a year. She has been teaching at Broward College for less than a year. With a PhD in Nursing and a Master's in Nursing Leadership, she brings clinical expertise and academic excellence to her role as adjunct faculty at Broward College, teaching courses in pharmacology, medical-surgical, and obstetric nursing. Her career spans faculty roles at Florida Atlantic University and Florida International University, leadership positions in healthcare systems, and initiatives improving nurse retention and professional development. Dr. Abiriis triple certified in nurse executive leadership, maternal newborn care and fetal monitoring. Her research focuses on safety culture in obstetrics, reflecting her commitment to enhancing patient outcomes and professional environments.

Adjunct Professor of the Year: Dr. Amy Phillips
AHCD Pathway - Communication
Dr. Amy Phillips is an Adjunct Speech Instructor at Broward College, specializing in Public Speaking and Speech Communication. She has been teaching at the College for a little over a year. She holds a PhD and MS in Communication Theory and Research from University of Southern California, a Master of Arts in Broadcasting from Boston University, and a Bachelor of Science from the University of Rochester. Formerly Department Chair of Communication at the Art Institute of Fort Lauderdale, she managed media platforms and produced 20+ events. A board member for community organizations, Dr. Phillips balances her professional life with hobbies like baking, reading, and watching science fiction. Passionate about teaching, she views communication as essential for peace and understanding, inspiring her students to excel.

Professor of the Year: Mariah Reed
AHCD Pathway – Fine Arts
Mariah Reed toured the U.S. as a lead actress with the National Shakespeare Company before founding two Equity theatre companies in Florida. A working actress, playwright, and director, she has taught at Broward College for more than two decades, where she shares her industry insights with students in courses such as Voice, Acting, Shakespeare’s Verse, and On-Camera Technique. A three-time recipient of Broward College’s Endowed Teaching Chair, Professor Reed is a proud member of SAG/AFTRA, The Actors Equity Association, and The Dramatists Guild. Her dual commitment to professional artistry and education enriches her classroom and inspires her students.

Adjunct Professor of the Year: Dr. Mario Vazquez
AHCD Pathway – Fine Arts
Dr. Mario Vazquez, a valued Broward College member since 2006, began his academic journey while serving in the U.S. Army, earning his associate’s degree. He later completed a bachelor's and master’s in art education at Southern Connecticut State University, a Specialist in Education from Barry University, and a doctorate from Nova Southeastern University. With over two decades of teaching art at public schools and colleges, Dr. Vazquez supports student success as an Academic Advisor at South Campus, reflecting his dedication to the Broward College community.

Adjunct Professor of the Year: Scott H. Wells
AHCD Pathway – Fine Arts
Scott H. Wells holds a Master of Humanities from Tiffin University and an MFA from Florida Atlantic University. A proud native of South Florida and proud Broward College alumnus, Professor Wells began teaching at the College in 2016 and is known for celebrating student individuality. He credits the supportive administration and faculty at BC South Campus for fostering a safe, collaborative learning environment. Grateful to his students for their dedication, Professor Wells looks forward to mentoring more learners as they pursue their dreams.

Professor of the Year: Dr. Pascal Roubides
STEM Pathway - Math
Dr. Pascal Roubides has been engaged in online education for over 20 years as a facilitator, course developer, researcher, and student. Dedicated to maximizing student success, he leverages innovative, data-driven approaches to enhance learning in asynchronous online environments. By employing behavioral analytics on students’ digital footprints, he ensures timely intervention and effective risk management, fostering greater academic achievement.

Adjunct Professor of the Year: Priyasha Jadoo
AHCD Pathway – Communication
Priyasha Jadoo, a devoted educator with 17 years of experience, has been teaching English Composition to both online and face-to-face students at Broward College for more than 13 years. She holds master’s degrees in English Education from Nova Southeastern University and Educational Leadership from American College of Education. Born in Guyana and raised in a family of educators, she found her passion for teaching early on. Beyond the classroom, she enjoys sampling regional coffees and relaxing on Maho Beach. Committed to adaptability and growth, Professor Jadoo aims to inspire students by fostering a love for literature and honing critical thinking and writing skills that benefit them for life.

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