TVCC 2026 Teacher of the Year
TVCC NAMES MARCUS NICHOLS TEACHER OF THE YEAR
Natural Resources Instructor has taught at TVCC for 18 years
ONTARIO, Ore. (June 10, 2026) — Treasure Valley Community College is proud to announce that Natural Resources Instructor Marcus Nichols has been named the 2025-26 Teacher of the Year!
Nichols has spent 18 years with TVCC since joining in Fall 2008 and has shared his expertise, experience, and enthusiasm in natural resources and land management with his students. He is known for his hands-on lab assignments in the field where he specializes in experiential learning opportunities for his students.
"I was really surprised and honored to receive this recognition, and it means a lot to be recognized by the students," Nichols said. "Teaching at TVCC provides me with the opportunity and privilege to positively influence young people and help shape their careers. I get to introduce a lot of people to the outdoors and show them how they can turn their interest into a lifelong career. I am really blessed to have that responsibility. As much as I value the in-classroom connection, I have grown to really appreciate the lifelong relationships I have been able to create and maintain with former students living and working in the area. It has become one of the most rewarding aspects of my career."
He is the faculty advisor for the Natural Resources Club, which he has helped to multiple Club of the Year recognitions. He also works with Pheasants Forever, Delta Water Fowl, and sits on the Advisory Board for High Desert Partnership in Harney County.
“We are so grateful to have Marcus here at TVCC passing on his decades of experience and knowledge onto all the students lucky enough to take his classes,” said TVCC President Dr. Dana M. Young. “Marcus embodies what it means to be a Chukar, and I am so proud he has earned this recognition from the students.”
Nichols earned his bachelor’s degree from Eastern Illinois University and his master’s from Southern Illinois University. In 2024 he earned a second Master’s of Natural Resources (MNR) from Auburn University.
The Teacher of the Year award was voted on by students who were asked to look for the key characteristics of respect, commitment, and knowledge.
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ABOUT TREASURE VALLEY COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Treasure Valley Community College provides accessible, affordable, and high-quality education that empowers students and strengthens communities across rural Eastern Oregon, Southwest Idaho, and beyond. Since 1962, we have provided a supportive, personalized learning environment where students can reach their goals while contributing to the region’s economic development. We connect students with direct career pathways, offer opportunities to build in-demand skills, and partner with local employers to align education with real-world workforce needs. Everything we do is guided by the belief that education should be within reach for everyone—and that every student deserves the opportunity to thrive.
CONTACT
Public Information Officer Justin Emerson
jemerson@tvcc.cc | 541-881-5582