Nancy Noe: 2014 Post-Secondary Teacher of the Year

Photo courtesy of LBCC media department

Achievements don't just happen for students here at LBCC. Nancy Noe, business technology instructor, was named 2014's Post-Secondary Teacher of the Year by the Oregon Business Education Association.

Noe got an anonymous nomination for the title based off work experience, volunteer work, and extracurricular educational involvement. She was honored at the annual conference, accepting her award surrounded by peers.

"It's humbling and a great honor," Noe said.

The title was not won without support. In her nomination Noe was supported by three former students and two peers as she was considered for Post-Secondary Teacher of the Year.

"I think the student support was valuable to the award," said Noe.

At LBCC since 2000, she has a business degree in finance from Portland State and master's in business from Oregon State University. She currently serves as an advisor for the Legal Administration Assistant Program and Administrative Office Professional Program.

Outside of the classroom Noe invests her time in her students. She enjoys offering hands-on, personal guidance as students prepare for their careers. She helps them find jobs and find connections that will be lasting in their field.

"Any educator that puts their heart out to students is working hard - that's what it takes. You have to care about your students," said Noe.

Twila Lehman, fellow business technology instructor and the 2010 winner of the same honor, works with Noe designing curriculum and teaching. They also serve on professional organizations together.

"Nancy is a true professional who always puts students first. She strives to bring out the best in each student, often going beyond what is asked of her to help a student succeed," Lehman said.

Noe values her ability to create relationships with her students scattered among two years of training at LBCC, and her work with them does not go unnoticed.

"She gets to know her students and helps them find their gifts and encourages them to achieve their dreams. She makes sure students get the support they need to succeed, and then celebrates when they achieve them. She exemplifies the skills she expects her students to learn and prepares them to move from LBCC to the workforce with confidence," said Lehman.