Yuba College mathematics professor Erika Noffsinger was named a recipient of the 2026 Excellence in Teaching Award by the California Mathematics Council of Community Colleges on April 10, 2026. The award recognizes outstanding mathematics educators across California for their commitment to student success, their innovative classroom practices, and their contributions to their departments and institutions.
Dr. Michael Bagley, dean of industrial innovation, business, science and math pathways at Yuba College, stated that the recognition reflects Professor Noffsinger’s unwavering commitment to student success, her innovative and student-centered teaching, and her deep investment in creating meaningful learning experiences for all students. Dr. Samantha Dana, vice president of instruction at Yuba College, added that Professor Noffsinger’s award honors not only her direct impact on Yuba College students but also her broader work with math faculty to improve teaching and learning for all students, ensuring that "generations of students in the Yuba-Sutter region have benefited and will continue to benefit from that work."
Noffsinger expressed surprise and honor at the recognition, noting that the affirmation from colleagues made it especially meaningful. With over 30 years of experience in mathematics education, Noffsinger has developed a teaching approach centered on engagement, connection, and student understanding. She has transitioned from traditional lecture styles to more interactive classrooms, incorporating group work, discussion, and hands-on activities. Noffsinger explained that building connections with students significantly impacts their success, fostering a sense of comfort, support, and willingness to engage in the learning process. Her teaching focuses on helping students to truly understand concepts rather than simply memorizing procedures, creating an environment where they feel comfortable making mistakes and learning from them. She credits her students for shaping her approach over the years, teaching her the importance of patience, encouragement, and a supportive environment.
Beyond her classroom responsibilities, Professor Noffsinger established Yuba College’s Mathematics Teaching Community to foster collaboration among faculty. This group provides a forum for instructors to exchange ideas and adapt to changes in mathematics education, including statewide legislation such as AB 705 and AB 1705, which altered student placement and support in college-level math courses. Noffsinger noted that she immediately recognized the value of creating a space for faculty to collaborate and support each other as major changes began to impact mathematics education. She said the community has helped faculty adapt to evolving student needs and enhance support strategies, serving as a place for meaningful conversations about teaching and how to reach students from diverse backgrounds. Noffsinger also acknowledged her colleagues' dedication, openness, and willingness to collaborate as essential to the community’s success.
What continues to motivate her, Noffsinger stated, is the tangible impact she observes in her students. Watching a student gain confidence or experience a breakthrough moment never gets old, she said, emphasizing her desire for students to see that with hard work, perseverance, and support, they can achieve more than they might have believed possible. Yuba College, located at 2088 North Beale Rd., Marysville, CA, has served the residents of the Yuba-Sutter area for over 98 years. Opened in 1927, the 180-acre college offers more than 90 programs to its over 10,000 students, leading to certificates, associate degrees, or transfer to four-year institutions. Yuba College also operates the Sutter County Center and is part of a two-college district spanning 4,192 square miles across all or parts of eight counties.
