Two Black Hawk College employees recently received the Golden Apple Award from the college’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter at the Quad-Cities Campus.
During the honor society’s Spring 2023 Induction Ceremony, the Golden Apple Award was presented to Torria Norman, English professor, and Amy Smith, accounting professor.
Norman was nominated by PTK students Michelle Frerich and Lauren Pena, and Smith was nominated by PTK student Lauren Bloomquist.
Norman “helped effectively adjust my writing style, refine it, and help continue my love for writing,” Frerich said. “She is a great instructor to go to for help, a sense of humor, and a great person to rely on and trust.”
Norman “cares so much about her students” and “brings positive energy to the classroom,” Pena said. “She goes above and beyond to help students with work and has open discussions about real-world issues.”
“I have never felt so supported by a teacher,” Bloomquist said about her experience in Smith’s online classes. “She took time out of her busy life to offer some much-needed advice about my future career.
“Taking the time to listen to me and offer supportive, honest guidance is something I will never forget,” Bloomquist said.
Each fall and spring semester, PTK students at the Quad-Cities Campus are asked to recommend a faculty or staff member for the Golden Apple Award. The first award was presented at the chapter’s Spring 2019 induction ceremony.