A Boise State University professor who turned a seven-week online wine course into an interactive learning experience has been recognized by her students as one of the best educators on campus. Amanda Ryan, Ph.D., Assistant Dean of the College of Innovation + Design and Director of the Beer and Wine Studies program, has been selected as a 2026 Golden Apple Award recipient.
About the Golden Apple Awards
The Golden Apple Awards are presented annually by the Associated Students of Boise State University to honor faculty members who demonstrate exceptional commitment to student success. This year’s competition reached a new milestone, with 403 nominations submitted across the university — the highest total on record. An all-student committee reviewed each submission and chose 12 winners, one representing each college, based on Boise State’s seven shared values: Academic Excellence, Caring, Citizenship, Fairness, Respect, Responsibility, and Trustworthiness.
Student Sal Gardea nominated Ryan and praised her ability to keep students engaged even in a remote format. “She is insanely innovative,” Gardea said. “I’ve never had a teacher do that in an online class. I really respect Amanda, and I can tell she truly respects the students.”
A Boise State Alumna Leading by Example
Ryan’s connection to Boise State runs deep. She earned her Bachelor of General Studies, Master of Arts in Technical Communication, and Ph.D. in Psychology all at the university she now serves as an administrator and educator. That background informs an approach to teaching that blends academic rigor with practical, career-focused experience — particularly within the Beer and Wine Studies program, where she works to connect students with real-world industry opportunities.
The recognition reflects a broader culture of student engagement at Boise State. Faculty members interested in building similar connections with students may want to explore programs like the Shared Leadership initiative, which currently has applications open with limited availability.
What the Award Means
A nomination for the Golden Apple Award on its own signals that a student felt genuinely impacted by a professor’s dedication. Being selected as a winner — out of hundreds of nominees, by an all-student review panel — carries considerably more weight. Ryan’s selection as the College of Innovation + Design’s representative speaks to the breadth of her influence across the student body.
The Boise State campus community continues to celebrate local achievements like this one alongside broader Treasure Valley news. Residents following community developments may also be interested in updates on a long-delayed Boise park project that a family donation may finally help complete.
The Golden Apple Awards ceremony recognizes educators whose work shapes student lives both inside and outside the classroom — and this year’s record-setting nomination total suggests that spirit is alive and well at Boise State.