Steve Engels, a professor, teaching stream in the University of Toronto's Department of Computer Science, has received the Joan E. Foley Quality of Student Experience Award — one of the university's highest honours recognizing contributions to undergraduate and graduate student life.

Presented annually by the U of T Alumni Association, the $1,000 prize goes to a student, faculty or administrative staff member who has made a distinctive and lasting contribution beyond the expectations of their role. Engels was recognized for his work building video game design education and experiential learning opportunities that have shaped the academic paths of hundreds of students.

In 2007, Engels created CSC404: Introduction to Video Game Design, a course that draws students from Computer Science, OCAD University and U of T's Faculty of Music to collaborate in multidisciplinary teams. In a 2024 interview, Engels recounted creating the course after a student expressed interest in game design. Many first-year students now cite CSC404 as a reason they chose to study computer science at U of T.

The course became the foundation for the Level Up Showcase, which Engels co-founded in 2011 with collaborators from OCAD University and Ontario Tech University. What began as a modest end-of-term exhibition has grown into one of the largest student game showcases in Ontario, drawing more than 4,000 attendees in 2025 and featuring teams from more than 20 colleges and universities. Industry partners including Ubisoft and Zynga participate as judges and audience members, giving students direct exposure to professional networks and career opportunities.

Beyond the classroom and showcase, Engels has developed research and outreach experiences that connect students to real-world applications of game design. Through partnerships with the Royal Ontario Museum, Toronto Rehab Institute, the Institute of Forensic Sciences at U of T Mississauga, U of T’s Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE) and various community organizations, students have contributed to projects ranging from museum interactive exhibits to rehabilitation tools and educational games.

"Steve's work exemplifies what it means to go above and beyond for students," said Eyal de Lara, professor and chair of the Department of Computer Science. "From a single course to a province-wide showcase and a network of community partnerships, he has built something that continues to open doors for students long after they leave the classroom."

The Joan E. Foley Award is named in tribute to the late Joan Foley, who served as the first female Provost of U of T and first female Principal of U of T Scarborough. It is presented as part of the university's annual Awards of Excellence.