Minnesota West's Gaul honored with statewide educator award

Minnesota West Community & Technical College History Instructor Dr. Anita Gaul has received the 2026 Minnesota State Board of Trustees Educator of the Year Award for Excellence in Teaching.

Gaul was nominated by Minnesota West in November 2025. Final award recipients were announced in February, with Gaul recognized as one of three educators statewide selected from across the Minnesota State college system. The award honors outstanding teaching, dedication to students and service to the mission of Minnesota State.

Gaul has earned multiple Honorable Mention Instructor recognitions during her time at Minnesota West. Since joining the college as a full-time faculty member in 2018, she has become known for her engaging teaching style and thoughtful approach to instruction.

Said Minnesota West President Dr. Terry Gaalswyk in a press release: “Dr. Gaul’s teaching philosophy makes ‘history come alive,’ Frequently, Anita arrives

dressed in era-specific clothing, pushing a cart filled with self-prepared foods for her students to experience. She transforms the classroom into a space of connection and curiosity.

“She cultivates the behaviors democracy depends on -- informed reasoning, respect and civic responsibility,” Gaalswyk continued. “Her students understand why democratic self-government relies on citizens who study, question, listen and engage.”

Gaul’s service reaches well beyond the classroom. In 2024, she received the National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) M  edallion Award, presented by Minnesota Secretary of State Steve Simon. The award recognized her service as Vice-Chair of the State Emblems Redesign Commission, a legislatively appointed group responsible for redesigning Minnesota’s state seal and flag.

Equity and inclusion are central to Gaul’s work in the classroom. After completing a Faculty Learning Community focused on equity in 2022, she introduced an equity rubric into her U.S. History courses. Student feedback consistently reflects the welcoming and supportive environment she creates. Her classes include group debates, discussion-based lectures, and writing-focused assignments that emphasize both academic rigor and student growth.

She is also a respected historian whose work helps southwest Minnesota better understand its past. Through scholarship, public presentations, and community service, Gaul has contributed to conversations about Native American boarding schools, pioneer women, and rural racial dynamics, helping preserve and share the region’s history.