The Board of Trustees of the Nebraska State Colleges has selected Assistant Professor Jordan Haas of Chadron State College as the 2026 Teaching Excellence Award recipient for the Nebraska State College System (NSCS). Haas was chosen during the Board’s April meeting and will be formally recognized during spring commencement ceremonies at Chadron State College.
Each year, the NSCS Teaching Excellence Award honors a faculty member from Chadron State College, Peru State College, or Wayne State College who exemplifies outstanding teaching and advising, innovative instructional practices, high academic standards, and the ability to create engaging learning environments that inspire student success. Finalists are first selected at the institutional level before advancing for system-wide consideration.
Haas, a faculty member in the Department of Mathematical Sciences at Chadron State College, is widely recognized for his student-centered approach to teaching, commitment to relationship-building, and innovative integration of technology and experiential learning into the classroom.
“Mr. Haas represents the very best of the Nebraska State College System,” said NSCS Chancellor Paul Turman. “His unwavering commitment to student success, his ability to make learning both accessible and engaging, and his genuine care for the students he serves embody the spirit of this award. Mathematics can be one of the most challenging subjects for students, but Mr. Haas has a unique ability to make it relatable, approachable, and meaningful. By connecting concepts to students’ lived experiences and building their confidence, he helps remove barriers to learning and opens doors to opportunity. He creates an environment where students feel supported, challenged, and inspired to achieve more than they thought possible.”
Reflecting on the recognition, Haas emphasized the central role students play in his work and expressed appreciation for the colleagues and students who have supported his journey.
“I feel so honored to receive the NSCS Teaching Excellence Award,” he said. “Honestly, I just love coming to campus every day to help our students achieve their goals and dreams. Teaching is my passion, and I am grateful that Chadron State College has provided me with the opportunity to do what I love and share my passion with pre-service teachers. I have been so fortunate throughout my career to work alongside such great people. I want to thank one of my mentors, Professor Rob Stack, who nominated me for this award and wrote a letter of support. I would also like to thank Dr. Shaunda French-Collins, Associate Professor John Ritzen, and Lauren Zimmerman for their letters of support.”
Haas’s teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that every student can succeed, particularly in mathematics, when instruction is tailored to individual learning styles and supported by strong relationships. He is known for creating a classroom environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, taking risks, and building confidence in their abilities.
Colleagues and students alike highlight Haas’s excellence across multiple areas:
- Innovative Teaching and Expertise: “He incorporates a wide variety of teaching strategies and brings deep knowledge of both K-12 and higher education mathematics, ensuring students receive the highest quality instruction and preparation,” said Dr. Rob Stack, Professor of Mathematical Sciences and the 2004 Teaching Excellence Award recipient.
- Student Engagement and Support: “He creates a motivated, engaging environment and meets students where they are, consistently going the extra mile to support their learning both inside and outside the classroom,” said Dr. Shaunda French-Collins, Dean of the School of Business, Mathematics and Science.
- Relationship-Building and Mentorship: “His ability to connect with students and serve as a trusted mentor makes a lasting impact, with students viewing him as both a teacher and a supportive guide,” said Associate Professor and Head Women’s Golf Coach Dr. John Ritzen.
- Transformational Student Impact: “He has made me a better student, teacher, and person—his support, encouragement, and teaching style have had a lasting influence on my academic and personal success,” said Lauren Zimmerman, a senior majoring in mathematics at CSC.
Beyond the classroom, Haas is an active contributor to campus life and student success initiatives. He serves as faculty advisor for Blue Key Honor Society, participates in recruitment efforts such as Eagle Experience Days, and leads community outreach programs like Family Math Night. His work also includes curriculum development and research focused on improving student outcomes in mathematics education.
Haas is currently completing his Doctor of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (ABD) from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. He has a Master of Education in Educational Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Education with a mathematics endorsement, both from Chadron State College. As a first-generation college student, Haas credits the Nebraska State College System with opening doors that shaped his career and continues to guide his commitment to serving students.
The Nebraska State College System congratulates Haas on this well-deserved recognition and celebrates his continued contributions to student success, academic excellence, and the mission of Nebraska’s state colleges.
Contact:
Judi Yorges, Director of Strategic Initiatives and Communications
402.471.2505 | jyorges@nscs.edu
