The award goes to a teacher who:

• Recognizes the value of the adult learner’s life experiences and is receptive to the issues and concerns of their students and supportive of their students in and out of the academic setting; and
• Demonstrates flexibility and understanding in dealing with non-traditional students while holding true to the integrity of the course, program and institution.

Nominees must be junior standing or above, earn a minimum of a 3.0 GPA and at least 24 credits at Lakeland and have:

• Demonstrated outstanding character, motivation and discipline;
• Overcome or persevered through difficult or unusual circumstances to pursue their education;
• Made a positive contribution in the classroom and community through leadership and/or service.

Nominees must complete at least 15 credits of graduate work at Lakeland with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 and meet the following:

• Demonstrated outstanding character, motivation and discipline;
• Overcome or persevered through difficult or unusual circumstances to pursue their education;
• Made a positive contribution in the classroom and community through leadership and/or service.

Stephen Ivancic, St. Paul, Minn. – Stephen is known for being a creative instructor who seamlessly integrates input from his students and is skilled in putting a human touch in online forums.

Shaun O’Keefe, Madison Wis. – Shawn has been recognized as an Outstanding Adjunct Instructor five times at Lakeland University. Her ability to validate each student and their circumstances is a hallmark of her teaching style.

Susan Sigler, Mint Hill, N.C. – Susan is not only recognized for making accounting fun, but also for taking the time to teach organizational and soft skills to make her students aware of how they can be successful in other ways.

Matt Schmidt, Menasha, Wis. – Matt’s nominators highlight his passion and enthusiasm for teaching along with his compassion and support for every student he has in class.

David Vitse, Madison, Wis. – David is a highly sought after instructor for his ability to help his students find belonging and identify their personal interests.

Jenna Endries, Manitowoc, Wis. – Jenna is known for being a vibrant leader and a constant positive contributor to her learning environment.

Jeannine Fisk, Eau Claire, Wis. – Jeannine’s perseverance, attitude and hard work in the classroom earned her recognition by her instructors.

Blake Herber, Plainview, Minn. – Blake was nominated by a professor as one of the most engaged and collaborative students in his class.

Em Janusz, Madison, Wis. – Em was nominated in this category for showing up as their authentic self and modeled kindness, leadership and community building.

Morgan Wilbur, Menomonie, Wis. – Morgan’s nomination follows her exceptional academic performance where one instructor noted she transforms her thinking with committed discovery of the learning process.

Rachel Bass, Kaukauna, Wis. – As a lifelong learner, Rachel shows exceptional insight and uses that to help others.

Josh Gerstner, Spring Green, Wis. – For his encouragement of other students, his nominator said, “Anyone who gets to be in a class with Josh is lucky and better for it!”

Carley Mueller, Waupaca, Wis. – Carley’s progress and personal growth make her a leader in and out of the classroom.

Angela Schuebel, Rogers, Minn. – With superb skill at balancing home and work life, Angela is recognized by her peers for exemplifying servant leadership.

Rebecca Sievers, Kimberly, Wis. – Rebecca is reliable, optimistic and compassionate and exceeds expectations with tremendous hard work.