VC Women's Basketball Honors Favorite Teachers

See 2023 Favorite Teacher Photos

For the first time in three years, the Ventura College women's basketball team honored its favorite teachers following its game Wednesday at the Athletic Event Center. For the 16th time, members of the Pirates' sophomore class each selected a "Favorite Teacher" based on their own personal criteria. Including this year, a total of 90 awards have been presented by VC women's basketball since 2006.

On Wednesday January 25, VCCCD Board member Josh Chancer, VC President Dr. Kim Hoffmans, and VCCCD Chancellor Dr. Rick MacLennan helped the team honor the latest class of Favorite Teachers. These instructors, through their skill, expertise, thoughtfulness, and humanity have earned the distinction of being named the team's 2023 "Favorite Teachers".

Erin Brocker, Chemistry, selected by Jasmine Glover
I chose Erin Brocker as my favorite teacher because I genuinely enjoyed going to her class. She made the chem lab easy to follow and comprehend. Although Chemistry can be difficult, she made her labs enjoyable, making learning easier She was engaging in class and geared her instruction to each individual student in addition to the class Erin Brocker (Chemistry),as a whole.  She made sure we understood the material and always was a huge help with things we found to be difficult. You could tell she cares about our success in her class.

Fernando Hernandez, Spanish, selected by Kenya Edelhart
Professor Fernando Hernandez is my favorite teacher because on the first day he made sure that all the students were engaged and participating in the activities that he had planned for us. He had us get into groups and converse in Spanish (this is a Spanish I class) and learn how to greet each other. He immersed us in Spanish from the first minute, and we have not looked back. He also keeps us on our toes with his sense of humor in both languages. I've only been in his class for two weeks, but I know I'm going to have a great time. 

Corina McKoy, Political Science, selected by Kylie Gallick
My favorite teacher from Ventura College is Professor Corinna McKoy. She was my American Government instructor this past fall, and even though the class was online and fully asynchronous, she still had a great impact on my semester. Her class structure of lectures and videos helped me better understand the concepts we were learning. She was available through online office hours and email to assist students with assignments, despite facing many personal hurdles throughout the year. I would highly recommend her to anyone who needs a government class. Thank you, Professor McKoy, for your lasting impression.

Joey Ramirez, Health, selected by Alisha Cruz-Lisberg
I chose my Managing Stress teacher, Coach Joey Ramirez, for teacher appreciation day. I love how coach Joey teaches this class as he relates the material to us personally and engages us in conversations.  That is the way in which I learn best! I experienced many new techniques managing my stress, and I continue to practice them daily. Coach Joey also shared some of his life experiences, helping inspire us to be the best versions of ourselves. I'm grateful I took his class and recommended it to all students.

Steve Turner, EAC, selected by Talitha Draper
I met Mr. Turner as a freshman many years ago, and then again, this year.  I had challenges learning, yet he never judged me and always encouraged me.  With his patience, encouragement, and persistence, I was able to learn.  He took the time to care, and I will be forever grateful he was one of my instructors.  Thank you for being that special teacher to not only me, but all the students in your classes.  You most definitely deserve to be named my favorite teacher!

Jaclyn Walker, English, selected by Sofia Torres-Reyes
I chose Jaclyn Walker as my favorite teacher because she made English fun. She taught me how to embrace my thoughts and feelings and transcribe them onto paper, which made writing interesting. She was understanding and supportive in many ways and created a safe and peaceful environment in which all students were able to freely express ideas without judgement. Thank you, Professor Walker for the support that you provided and the unforgettable lessons you shared.