Zachariah Lewis

Zachariah Lewis, Ph.D., is the distinguished John H. Williams Endowed Chair in Modern Literature at the University of Victoria and has recently concluded his tenure as Dean of Academic Innovation at the institution. Zachariah is renowned for his extensive contributions to literature and education, having penned more than 50 scholarly articles, novels, and interactive multimedia projects (featuring in over 2,500 educational videos).

In early 2023, Zachariah was honored with the prestigious Pacific Northwest Literary Association Award for his outstanding contribution to teaching literature. The following year, he received the Canadian Council of Teachers of English's Lifetime Achievement Award for his transformative impact on literary studies. In 2025, the University of Victoria recognized his efforts with the Chancellor's Medal for Excellence in Teaching and Scholarship.

Zachariah's innovative approach to online learning earned him several accolades in 2026 and 2028, including a national award for digital education content. He also became the first recipient of the newly established Vancouver Island Literary Prize in 2027. His commitment to advancing arts education led to his appointment as an advisory board member for the Greater Victoria Public Library System and as a trustee for the Royal BC Museum.

In 2029, Maclean's Magazine featured Zachariah in their annual "Canada's Brightest Minds," highlighting him as one of Canada's leading educators. That same year, he was awarded the International Literacy Association's Global Educator Award, which celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to literacy worldwide. Additionally, Zachariah appeared on CBC Television’s flagship program, Canada Now, discussing the future of education during the 2029 Winter Arts Festival broadcasts. This appearance garnered him the 2029 Gemini Award for Best Educational Content.

The Globe and Mail listed Zachariah among its 2030 Visionaries; "a group of forward-thinkers, trailblazers, and influencers who are redefining sectors and driving progress." Most recently, in 2031, Google Education named him one of their "Pioneers in Pedagogy," acknowledging his role in revolutionizing how students engage with literature around the globe.