Kristi Harris, North Central Missouri College

North Central Missouri College (NCMC) has named Ashtyn Wilson, Practical Nursing (PN) Program Coordinator, as the recipient of the 2026-2027 Excellence in Teaching Award.

The Excellence in Teaching Award is presented annually to a faculty member who demonstrates outstanding commitment and contributions to students, colleagues, and the college community. This prestigious honor recognizes an educator who exemplifies excellence through a clear vision of teaching, innovative instructional practices, meaningful curriculum development, leadership, professionalism, and expertise in their field.

Wilson has been a member of NCMC’s Nursing Department since 2017, serving first at the Maryville campus and now at the Savannah campus. She consistently exemplifies the qualities of an exceptional educator through her passion, dedication, innovation, and expertise. Her purposeful approach to teaching is evident in her daily interactions with students, where she fosters critical thinking and inspires a genuine enthusiasm for learning. Wilson has a remarkable ability to simplify complex pathophysiology concepts, transforming them into visual aids and explanations that make challenging material accessible and understandable.

Her commitment to student success is reflected in her leadership as PN Program Coordinator in Savannah. Wilson has played a key role in strengthening the nursing curriculum and implementing innovative instructional strategies. Among her contributions is the development of a practical classroom chart designed to support student learning and prepare students for the Next Generation NCLEX (NextGen NCLEX). The tool reinforces critical thinking skills while helping students efficiently locate, interpret, and apply essential information.

Wilson’s student-centered approach extends well beyond the classroom. She offers evening office hours to accommodate student schedules and regularly provides enrichment opportunities to strengthen understanding of course content. Whether in the classroom, laboratory, or simulation setting, she consistently goes above and beyond to support student achievement and success.

Dr. Tristan Londre, Vice President of Academic Affairs, praised Wilson’s impact, stating, “We are fortunate to have such an exceptional faculty member. The success of our nursing students is a testament to Ms. Wilson’s teaching skill, dedication, and unwavering commitment to student success.”

Through her exceptional dedication, innovative teaching methods, and commitment to excellence, Wilson has become an invaluable member of the North Central Missouri College community. NCMC congratulates Ashtyn Wilson on being named the 2026-2027 Excellence in Teaching recipient.