We’re delighted to learn that Professor Rafael Mello has just received the Early Career Instructor Excellence in Teaching Award from the Education and Learning in International Affairs Section of the International Studies Association (ELIAS). The selection committee noted:

The recipient of the 2026 ELIAS Early Career Instructor Excellence in Teaching Award is Dr. Rafael Alexandre Mello, Visiting Assistant Professor of Politics at Bates College. While a lot of strong nominations were submitted, Dr. Mello’s application stood out for the degree to which he genuinely redistributes ownership of the classroom to his students and situates them at the centre of their own learning as involved agents. Specifically, his peer-teaching model has grown from sitting down with students to address together how participation and active engagement in learning can be improved.

Congratulations, Prof. Mello!