The College of Education & Human Development (CEHD) Golden Apple Teaching Award recognizes instructors who demonstrate exceptional dedication to teaching and advising and consistently go above and beyond in supporting student success.

Eligible nominees include tenure-track and non-tenure-track faculty, adjunct faculty, instructors, lecturers and graduate teaching assistants.

• Nomination Period: October 1 through April 1
• Award Presentation: Spring Semester

Selection Criteria

Individuals recognized for excellence in teaching and advising should demonstrate some or all the following characteristics:

• Clarity: Demonstrates effective organization of course content and instruction, clearly explains concepts and expectations, and provides understandable directions for assignments and projects.
• Variety of Instructional Approaches: Utilizes diverse teaching methods, instructional materials, learning activities, assessments, and strategies that actively engage students.
• Enthusiasm: Exhibits a genuine passion for teaching and student success through meaningful interaction, engagement, and encouragement.
• Professionalism and Preparation: Maintains high standards for learning, arrives well prepared, communicates clear expectations, and fosters creativity and critical thinking.
• Commitment to Student Learning: Aligns instruction and assessment with clearly established learning objectives and creates meaningful opportunities for student growth.
• Accessibility and Communication: Is available to students outside the classroom and communicates effectively in support of their academic success.
• Knowledgeable and Supportive Advising: Provides accurate and timely guidance regarding curriculum, academic policies, co-curricular opportunities, and available student support resources.
• Approachable and Student-Centered: Creates a welcoming environment in which students feel comfortable seeking assistance and support. Takes an active interest in student development and success.
• Mentorship and Advocacy: Serves as a trusted mentor and advocate, offering advice, guidance, and encouragement to help students achieve their academic and professional goals.

Nomination Materials

Submit a single PDF containing:

• Nomination Letter (1–2 pages)
  • Describe the nominee’s achievements, contributions, and activities that distinguish them as an outstanding educator and/or advisor.
  • Include either a summary of teaching and/or advising evaluations, or an attached table summarizing evaluation results that support the nomination criteria.
  • A brief letter of endorsement from the department chair, supporting the nomination.
• If a department chair is nominated, the nomination should be endorsed by the Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies.

Submission

• Submit nomination materials as a single PDF attachment via email to cehd.dean@missouri.edu.
• Use the following naming format: Year_AwardName_LastFirstName.pdf
  • Example: 2027_GoldenApple_TigerTruman.pdf
• In the email subject line, indicate the specific award for which the nomination is being submitted.
  • Example: Golden Apple Teaching Award Nomination
• Formatting requirements
  • 12-point font
  • 1-inch margins
  • Single-spaced paragraphs