Dr. Emily Becker, assistant professor of history at Sterling College, was presented with The William M. McCreery Teaching Award during the College’s Commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 9, 2026. The award honors faculty who demonstrate exceptional teaching and innovation in the classroom and is given annually to a faculty member who exemplifies excellence in instruction at Sterling College.

Established in 1977 to recognize noteworthy and creative classroom teaching, the award is named in honor of Sterling College’s fourth president, William M. McCreery. Dr. Becker is the 50th recipient of the award.

Becker is described by her colleagues as “able to navigate often challenging content in a way that engages students and draws them into the discipline.” One faculty member shared that she has always been impressed with her “dedication to students and their needs, sharing personal faith perspectives and praying for students.”

Student nominations echoed that praise, noting she “excels in creating meaningful, hands-on activities that solidify what’s being learned in class.” Another student added, “It is clear that this professor approaches her work from a Christian perspective, even in the unspoken manner with which she conducts herself in the classroom.”

Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kansas, with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit www.sterling.edu.