Each year, one of our faculty members is honored as the Distinguished Teacher of the Year, recognizing them as among the very best, and this year's is Jackie Langille, geology professor in the environmental science department.
Langille is well known among her students for fostering a positive and engaging classroom, so it is only fitting that she welcomes our newest Bulldogs to campus. She recommends developing a community with peers and professors by attending class, attending unique learning opportunities outside the classroom, conducting undergraduate research and creative activity, and enjoying all the outdoor opportunities the Blue Ridge has to offer.
"These kinds of experiences allow you to build a strong community," Langille said. "Let those relationships develop. You never know how they'll transform your life."
Langille draws inspiration from her own journey as a first-generation college student who didn't know exactly what she wanted.
"I didn't start college intending to be a geologist. I didn't know how I was going to pay for college or if I could even graduate," Langille said. "I just knew I wanted more than where I was."
A helpful nudge in the right direction from a professor set her along the course she is on now.
"I wouldn't have known geology would become such a major part of my identity if my professor hadn't given me that encouragement," Langille said. "I love being a professor here at UNC Asheville and encouraging students to explore their own uncharted paths."
“You have made it to college, and it’s now your opportunity to make the most of the experience,” Langille said. “Don’t take this opportunity for granite.”
© 2026 UNC Asheville
.jpeg?auto=webp)
.jpeg?auto=webp)
.jpeg?auto=webp)
.jpeg?auto=webp)
.jpeg?auto=webp)
/1x.jpeg?auto=webp)
/1x.jpeg?auto=webp)
/1x.jpeg?auto=webp)
/1x.jpeg?auto=webp)
/1x.jpeg?auto=webp)
/1x.jpeg?auto=webp)