Eastern Oregon University Adjunct Professor Dr. Mandy Vance Named Oregon’s 2023-24 Teacher of the Year

Eastern Oregon University Adjunct Professor Dr. Mandy Vance Named Oregon’s 2023-24 Teacher of the Year

LA GRANDE, Ore. – Eastern Oregon University (EOU) proudly congratulates Dr. Mandy Vance, an adjunct professor in EOU’s Health and Human Performances Program, on being named Oregon’s 2023-24 Teacher of the Year. Dr. Vance, also a middle school teacher at Cedar Ridge Middle School in Sandy, Oregon, is celebrated for her exceptional commitment to empowering students, creating inclusive environments, and fostering transformative educational experiences.

Governor Tina Kotek joined the Oregon Department of Education in recognizing Dr. Vance’s outstanding dedication to education, praising her focus on relational teaching and community involvement. 

“Teachers like Mandy are so important to ensuring every child has a safe and high-quality public education,” said Governor Kotek. “Her commitment to volunteerism and empowering students is incredible, and I’m thrilled to see her efforts being honored.”

Known for her adaptability and determination, Dr. Vance has been a leader in the Oregon Trail School District for over 15 years, designing and teaching creative science, athletic leadership, and academic success courses. Her dedication to understanding the needs of Generation Z athletes formed the foundation of her doctoral research at Concordia University. This research has been instrumental in guiding her work, where she helps students not only reach their academic goals but also develop as positive leaders both in and outside the classroom.

“As a relational educator, I know much of my success in the classroom is because I take the time to get to know each of my students. While this is extremely important, I am just one cog in the wheel of academic success,” Vance said in her application. “Alone we can only do so much, but when we know our students’ stories, are each willing to contribute our own gifts and expertise, and operate with gritty determination to discover what works for each student, this is when they are able to succeed in our schools.”

Dr. Vance’s selection as Oregon Teacher of the Year also reflects EOU’s ongoing commitment to promoting educational excellence. EOU President Kelly Ryan commented, “Dr. Vance’s recognition is a testament to the type of impactful, community-focused education that EOU strives to support. We are proud to have her as a part of our university family, inspiring future educators and leaders.”

As Oregon’s 2023-24 Teacher of the Year, Dr. Vance will serve as a spokesperson and advocate for educators across the state, participating in year-long professional development opportunities and networking with Teachers of the Year from across the country through the Chief Council of State School Officers’ National Teacher of the Year program. She will also receive a $10,000 cash award, with an additional $5,000 awarded to the Oregon Trail School District.

The Oregon Teacher of the Year program, sponsored by the Oregon Department of Education in partnership with the Oregon Lottery, celebrates teachers who demonstrate exceptional leadership, instructional expertise, and community impact. Dr. Vance’s achievement places her among Oregon’s most dedicated educators, and Eastern Oregon University is honored to celebrate her continued contributions to the field of education.For more information about Dr. Mandy Vance and her work with EOU, please visit eou.edu/hhp.