Minnesota West Faculty Member Selected as Minnesota State Nominee for ACCT Regional Award

Minnesota West Community & Technical College is honored to announce that Dr. Anita Gaul, history faculty member, was selected by Minnesota State as its nominee for the 2026 Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) Central Region Faculty Award.

The ACCT Faculty Award recognizes exceptional faculty members whose teaching, leadership, and service have made a significant impact on student success and the community college mission. Being chosen as Minnesota State’s nominee is a distinguished honor and reflects Dr. Gaul’s outstanding commitment to academic excellence.

The Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) is a national educational organization representing more than 6,500 elected and appointed trustees serving over 500 community, technical, and junior colleges across the United States and beyond. Through its annual awards program, ACCT recognizes individuals and institutions that demonstrate excellence and leadership in advancing community college education.

"Dr. Gaul exemplifies the dedication, innovation, and student-centered approach that define excellence in higher education," said Minnesota West President Terry Gaalswyk. "Her impact extends far beyond the classroom through her commitment to student success, academic leadership, and service to the college and community. We are proud to see her recognized at the state level and nominated for this regional honor."

Dr. Gaul has earned numerous accolades for her contributions to higher education. In November 2025, she was named Minnesota West's nominee for the Minnesota State Board of Trustees Educator of the Year Award. In February 2026, she was recognized as one of only three educators selected statewide for the honor, which acknowledges outstanding teaching, dedication to students, and service to the mission of Minnesota State. She was further recognized during the Minnesota State Awards for Excellence ceremony in April 2026.

Minnesota West congratulates Dr. Gaul on this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for her continued dedication to students, colleagues, and the college community.