Andrea McCaffree-Wallace Named Butler’s 2026 Master Teacher

Butler Community College English professor Andrea McCaffree-Wallace has been named the 2026 recipient of the Butler Community College Education Association (BCCEA) Master Teacher Award, recognizing her commitment to teaching, student success and service to the college.

The BCCEA has honored an outstanding faculty member with the Master Teacher Award each year since 1973, recognizing instructors who exemplify student engagement, scholarship, excellent teaching skills and service to both the college and the association.

“We received more nominations than usual this year, which made the selection process both more difficult and more meaningful,” said BCCEA President Kamielle Freeman. “The number and quality of nominations reflect how hard our faculty work for Butler every day. Andrea is a perfect example of that hard work and dedication.”

Over her 14 years at Butler, McCaffree-Wallace has earned a reputation among colleagues for her dedication to students and the college. Nominators described her as “brilliant,” praising her tireless work for students, colleagues and Butler’s mission. They highlighted her engaging and rigorous courses, her ability to meet students where they are, and her role as a collaborative mentor who steps up when needed.

“I am a third-generation teacher, so an award from my colleagues does feel like the highest possible honor,” McCaffree-Wallace said. “The Master Teacher award is a lifetime achievement award for Butler teachers; it means that you've not only put in the time but worked to become an expert in the classroom as well as your field.”

She also noted the often-unseen work that goes into teaching. “So much of teaching happens outside the classroom—grading, course design, answering student messages and meeting with students. I really love Butler and I am proud to have that recognized,” she said.

McCaffree-Wallace has deep family ties to Butler. Four generations of her family have attended the college, beginning with her great-grandmother, who returned as an adult student after raising her children and became a high school English teacher and advocate for higher education.