Dr. Amanda Ryan, an assistant dean at Boise State University’s College of Innovation + Design and director of the university’s Beer and Wine Studies program, has received a 2026 Golden Apple Award from the Associated Students of Boise State University.
The Golden Apple Awards recognize professors who demonstrate exceptional dedication to their students. This year’s awards drew 403 nominations across the university—a record high. An all-student committee evaluated every submission and selected 12 winners, one representing each college.
Selection Based on University Values
The committee based its selections on Boise State’s seven shared values: Academic Excellence, Caring, Citizenship, Fairness, Respect, Responsibility, and Trustworthiness. A nomination alone indicates a student believes a professor made a meaningful difference in their academic experience. Being chosen as a winner means multiple students reported a significant impact from that instructor.
Sal Gardea, who submitted a nomination for Ryan, praised her teaching approach. Gardea described Ryan as innovative and highlighted a seven-week online wine course that maintained an interactive environment despite the virtual format. Gardea noted that Ryan remained actively engaged with students throughout the course in ways he had not experienced in other online classes.
Background and Education
Ryan earned all three of her degrees from Boise State University. She holds a Ph.D. in Psychology, a Master of Arts in Technical Communication, and a Bachelor of General Studies. As director of the Beer and Wine Studies program, Ryan incorporates her industry background into coursework, creating practical learning experiences that prepare students for careers in the beverage industry.
What the Award Means for Boise State Students
The Golden Apple Awards serve as a direct channel for students to recognize faculty who excel at creating engaging learning environments. The student-driven selection process ensures the awards reflect what matters most to those in the classroom. For Ada County residents whose children attend Boise State, the awards offer insight into which professors are making a measurable difference in student success.
About the College of Innovation + Design
In addition to directing the Beer and Wine Studies program, Ryan serves as assistant dean of the College of Innovation + Design at Boise State. The college emphasizes applied learning and connections between academic programs and professional opportunities in Idaho’s growing economy. The Beer and Wine Studies program specifically addresses workforce needs in Idaho’s expanding craft beverage sector, preparing students for roles in production, management, and hospitality.
The recognition of Ryan through student nominations underscores the value Boise State places on faculty who bridge academic instruction with real-world application—an approach that benefits students entering Idaho’s job market after graduation.