This application is now open. Letters of support are due on Friday, March 27, 2026.

Applicants to the Teaching Academy must have a letter of nomination and a letter of recommendation from current members of the Teaching Academy. Current Teaching Academy members may write only one letter (either nomination or recommendation) to support a candidate each year. Those serving on the new member selection committee may not write a letter during their term. Nomination and recommendation letters should not exceed 2 pages.

The Teaching Academy application aligns with the newly adopted Texas Tech definition of teaching excellence. Nominators and recommenders are encouraged to view the Texas Tech definition of teaching excellence and refer to the relevant pillars of excellence (student-centered, intentional, evidence-based, and engaging) with examples as appropriate. Letters should be specifically crafted to address the qualifications of the nominee with respect to the mission of the Teaching Academy and the application materials. Please emphasize your personal knowledge of the nominee’s evidence of teaching excellence, service, and advocacy for teaching excellence by going beyond the information presented in the nominee’s application.

Please note that Teaching Academy applicants must begin the application process before letters of support can be submitted. Once an applicant provides the names of their supporters, the nominator and recommender will be emailed a specific URL from Info Ready to submit their letters.

2025-2026 Committee Members
Lisa Garner Santa (Chair)
Robert Cox
Kristi Gaines
Aaron Arreola
Stephanie Lockwood
Gary Fleischman
Jon McNaughtan
Michael Giesselmann
Sarai Brinker
Gencie Houy
Mary Norman
Carla Cash
Annie Chalex-Boyle

If you have any questions about this process, please contact the committee chair, Lisa Garner Santa. For questions about Info Ready, please contact Molly Jacobs.