University News

Theresa Twaddle, a graduate of WIU’s instructional design and technology program, earned a 2025 Golden Apple Award.
[Download Print-Quality Image]

WIU Alum Recognized for Teaching Excellence

March 6, 2025

Printer friendly version

MACOMB, IL - - Western Illinois University proudly celebrates alumna Theresa Twaddle, a graduate of WIU's instructional design and technology program, for receiving a 2025 Golden Apple Award from WGEM, a Quincy-based TV station, in January.

Twaddle teaches accounting, consumer education and other computer classes at Macomb High School. The Golden Apple Award recognizes excellence in teaching, emphasizing the impact teachers have on their students.

Twaddle has a unique approach to the courses she teaches. Twaddle said her classroom setup was designed to help her connect with her students. The student desks are around the outside of a circle with a big, open space in the middle to allow for games or meetings in the middle. Her students say she allows them artistic liberty to explore through projects. They appreciate her caring and open nature and her investment in their successes.

"Patience is a big deal in this world in this teaching adventure and I just feel like my attitude brings other attitudes and so I feel like my attitude has to be a caring one so I can get that out of my students," Twaddle said.

She also uses sweets to help students feel more comfortable in class.

"When we have a big grade that's turned in and their grade changes in the grade book, I will call them up individually," Twaddle said. "I have my bucket of Jolly Ranchers, we talk about their grade and they are free to take a Jolly Rancher or two."

Please join us in celebrating the teaching achievements and contributions of one of our outstanding alumni, Theresa Twaddle.

For more information on WIU's Education programs, visit wiu.edu/education.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing