Thank-a-Teacher Just Keeps Growing!

Rather than leaving apples on teacher’s desks, William & Mary students are recognizing their instructors’ guidance and positive influence with notes of appreciation. The Studio for Teaching & Learning Innovation launched the Thank-a-Teacher initiative in Fall 2022, with the intention of providing students and alumni with a meaningful way to show appreciation to instructors who have made a lasting effect on their learning experience. Coming from undergraduate and graduate students, the notes share personal reflections and deep appreciation across the university. 

 Thank-a-Teacher has experienced rapid growth since its start, and recently set a participation record! The initiative received more than 300submissions during the Fall 2024 semester, quadrupling participation since the program began. Submissions are continuing to stay in the hundreds with 131 submissions in Spring 2025. Instructor appreciation is becoming a movement of gratitude across campus.

 Because the notes are printed and hand-delivered to the recipient, instructors are able to see the direct impact they make on students. In one note, a student expressed, “You are such an approachable professor and genuinely so kind.” The initiative serves as a way to gain student perspective and recognize good teaching practices across the university. In the words of one student, “With your teaching methods, it brings tangibility and meaning in the topics we cover.” Instructors are able to see the direct impact and difference their teaching is having on students. 

To highlight the power of teacher appreciation, STLI included a new award recognizing outstanding teaching at the 2025 Teaching & Learning Symposium. Three instructors were awarded this recognition based on student submissions. Chemistry Professor Isaiah Speight won the Innovation in Impact Award for creative teaching that prepares students to succeed in a changing world. Deborah Lee-Ferrand, of the Modern Languages Department, won the Community Voice Award, for receiving the highest number of student submissions, reflecting inclusive and engaging teaching. Professor of Law Laura Heyman won the Transformative Teaching Award, for inspiring confidence, growth, and lifelong learning through mentorship and care. 

 With so much powerful teaching across the university, STLI plans to expand the reach and impact of Thank-a-Teacher with the launch of the Fall 2025 initiative.