(April 10, 2026) MARYSVILLE, CA — Yuba College mathematics professor Erika Noffsinger has been named a recipient of the 2026 Excellence in Teaching Award by the California Mathematics Council of Community Colleges.

The award recognizes outstanding mathematics educators across the state for their commitment to student success, innovation in the classroom and contributions to their departments and institutions.

“This recognition reflects what so many of us have long known, Erika’s unwavering commitment to student success, her innovative and student-centered approach to teaching, and her deep investment in creating meaningful learning experiences for all students,” said Dr. Michael Bagley, dean of industrial innovation, business, science and math pathways at Yuba College.

“Professor Noffsinger’s award honors not only her impact on Yuba College students, but the broader impact of her work with math faculty to improve teaching and learning for all students,” said Dr. Samantha Dana, vice president of instruction at Yuba College. “Generations of students in the Yuba-Sutter region have benefited and will continue to benefit from that work.”

Noffsinger said the recognition was unexpected.

“I was honestly surprised and very honored,” she said. “Knowing that this recognition comes from colleagues makes it especially meaningful. At this point in my career, it feels like an affirmation of the work I’ve been trying to do, not just in the classroom, but in building connections with students and supporting their growth.”

With more than 30 years of experience in mathematics education, Noffsinger has developed a teaching approach centered on engagement, connection and student understanding. Over time, she has moved away from a traditional lecture style toward a more interactive classroom that includes group work, discussion and hands-on activities.

“I’ve come to realize that building connections with students makes a huge difference in their success,” she said. “Creating that sense of connection helps students feel more comfortable, supported and willing to engage in the learning process.”

Noffsinger’s teaching approach centers on building understanding and creating an environment where students feel while learning.

“My teaching approach focuses on helping students truly understand concepts rather than just memorize procedures,” Noffsinger said. “I want students to feel comfortable making mistakes and learning from them.”

Noffsinger said her students have played a key role in shaping her teaching over the years.

“I’ve learned that students are incredibly resilient, even when they don’t always see it in themselves,” she said. “It’s taught me the importance of patience, encouragement and creating a supportive environment.”

Beyond the classroom, Noffsinger created Yuba College’s Mathematics Teaching Community to strengthen collaboration among faculty. The group provides a space for instructors to share ideas and respond to changes in mathematics education, including statewide legislation such as AB 705 and AB 1705, which changed how students are placed into and supported in college-level math courses.

“I immediately saw the value in creating a space where faculty could collaborate and support one another,” Noffsinger said. “As major changes began to impact mathematics education, I felt it was important to create a Mathematics Teaching Community focused on the challenges we were beginning to face.”

She said the group has helped faculty adapt to evolving student needs and improve support strategies.

“Throughout all of this, the Mathematics Teaching Community has served as a place for meaningful conversations about teaching and how to reach students with varying backgrounds,” she said.

Noffsinger also credited her colleagues for their continued commitment to the work.

“Their dedication, openness and willingness to collaborate have been essential to the success of this community,” she said.

What continues to drive her, she said, is the impact she sees in her students.

“Watching a student gain confidence or have a breakthrough moment never gets old,” she said. “I want students to see that with hard work, perseverance and support, they can achieve more than they may have believed possible.”

About Yuba College
Yuba College, located at 2088 North Beale Rd., Marysville, CA, has been providing quality education to the residents of the Yuba-Sutter area for more than 98 years. The 180-acre college opened its doors in 1927 and offers classes in over 90 programs that prepare students for a certificate, associate degree, or transfer to a four-year college. There are more than 10,000 students enrolled at Yuba College. For more information about Yuba College, please visit the website at yc.yccd.edu.

In addition to the main campus in Marysville, Yuba College operates the Sutter County Center and it is part of a two college District which covers 4,192 square miles and all or part of eight counties.

Media Contacts:
Chrystal Gillming
Student Marketing and Engagement Coordinator
Yuba College
530-741-6992 | cgillming@yccd.edu