“There is no greater honor among faculty than to receive a ‘teaching recognition’ that has its origins in students’ opinions about instruction.  Diane, Kacy, and Sandra exemplify the very best in instructional quality at NIACC and we’re all proud of their achievements and this recognition,” Dr. Debra Derr, NIACC president.

Graduating students that represent all areas of campus are invited to submit nominations for this prestigious award.  Each student who completed the Proficiency Profile exam was given a chance to nominate a NIACC instructor for recognition with the Excellence in Teaching award.  Students identified 95 different NIACC instructors accruing a total of 391 votes.

Diane Frank, Career and Technical faculty

Diane Frank, representing Career and Technical faculty, teaches in the Professional Administrative Services program.  Student nominations for Frank included comments such as, “I really looked forward to going to her class every time.  She took the time to help when needed, was always available outside of class time, and cared about her students,” and “She sees potential in all of her students.  She maintains a high level of professionalism and expects that of us.”

Kacy Larson, Arts and Science faculty

Kacy Larson, representing Arts and Science faculty, teaches students who are pursuing degrees as educators.  Larson’s student nominations included comments such as, “Class was always fun and I could see her passion for teaching shining through.  Having her as my teacher makes me want to stay at NIACC my whole college career,” and “She has really pushed me to strive for my goals and really go for them.”

Sandra Huff, Adjunct faculty

Sandra Huff, representing Adjunct Faculty, teaches in the Business Division.  Huff’s student nominations included comments such as, “Sandra was a big influence in helping me obtain my A.A.  She helped when we needed help…she would try to listen to the problems you had whether class related or not,” and “She was always upbeat and had a positive attitude, which carried over to her students.”

These awards reflect the emphasis NIACC places on teaching and student learning.  “We’re proud that the feedback from our students indicates that our faculty are knowledgeable, provide encouragement, and they care about student success,” Mark Johnson, Vice President for Academic Affairs, said.

For over five years, NIACC students have selected faculty for this recognition.  The Excellence in Teaching award is a chance for graduating students to recognize instructors who have made a difference in the student’s educational experience at NIACC. “Our faculty appreciate the positive feedback and recognition from the graduating students,” Derr, said.  “Because students are the ones who decide the nominees, announcing these award winners is an excellent way to begin our new academic year.”
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