May 15, 2025
Nikki Ashcraft, a teaching professor in the College of Education and Human Development at the University of Missouri, recently received the Excellence in Teaching Award from UPCEA, an online and professional education association.
The award recognizes educators “who have provided outstanding teaching, course development, mentoring of students and service to online and professional continuing education.”
Ashcraft is a teacher of teachers. Her students are predominantly other educators teaching English as a second language. Through her work within the Department of Learning, Teaching & Curriculum and Mizzou Online, Ashcraft has engaged students on a global scale, teaching more than 100 online courses in the last 14 years. Her peers nominated her for the UPCEA award because of her dedication to her craft and students.
This isn’t the first time Ashcraft’s expertise has been recognized. In 2016, she was named one of 30 emerging leaders in the field of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) by the TESOL International Association. And in 2018, she received Mizzou Online’s award for excellence in teaching. The latest award from UPCEA has been validating, Ashcraft said.
“It feels like the culmination of my career,” she said.
More and more Tigers are choosing to pursue programs through Mizzou Online. Accessibility and quality draw students in, but educators such as Ashcraft embody the talent and vibrancy of outstanding faculty who elevate online programs into memorable, formative experiences for their students.
About Mizzou Online
The University of Missouri (Mizzou) has invested heavily in online education since launching its online learning platform in 2012. Mizzou Online has since become a leader in online education, delivering the same world-class education students expect. Students have access to an ever-growing catalog of degree and certificate programs. Each of these programs opens doors for the curious to explore opportunities and experiences that will elevate their careers and empower them to excel.
Visit online.missouri.edu to learn more.
