Educator Awards

Riverland recognizes educators who go above and beyond for students. The awards below are part of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Board of Trustees Award for Excellence in Teaching.

2026 Outstanding Educator

Scott Blankenbaker

Learn more about this year's recipient →

Educators of the Year

  • 2019 Kim Hansen, Accounting
  • 2018 Rhonda Besel, Cosmetology
  • 2014 Sandra Sellner Wee, Radiography
  • 2013 Alan Erdahl, Biology
  • 2011 Pamela Tranby, Biology
  • 2008 Suzette Overby, Human Services

Know a great educator?

Nominations for the Award for Excellence in Teaching are open to students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members.

Submit a nomination

Outstanding Educators

  • 2026 Scott Blankenbaker, Music
  • 2025 Catherine Haslag. Chemistry
  • 2024 Vicki Kintop, Radiologic Technology
  • 2023 Betsy Goetz, English
  • 2022 Jenny Corey-Gruenes, English
  • 2022 Catherine Haslag, Chemistry
  • 2021 none
  • 2020 Rich Watkins, Criminal Justice
  • 2020 Catherine Haslag, Chemistry
  • 2019* Kim Hansen, Accounting
  • 2019 Heidi Schara, Speech
  • 2018*Rhonda Besel, Cosmetology
  • 2017 none
  • 2016 Heidi Schara, Speech
  • 2015 Ellen Goslee, Nursing
  • 2014 *Sandra Sellner-Wee, Radiography
  • 2013 *Alan Erdahl, Biology
  • 2012 Heidi Schara, Speech
  • 2011 *Pamela Tranby, Biology
  • 2010 Jerry Girton, Theatre
  • 2009 Danyel Helgeson, Nursing
  • 2008 *Suzette Overby, Human Services
  • 2007 Jon Olseth, English