Ania Antus named CLC Outstanding Educator 

Economics instructor Ania Antus, Ph.D. has been named the Central Lakes College 2025-26 Outstanding Educator. This honor includes nominations by students and peers, as well as a recommendation from a committee of CLC employees.  

“Receiving this Outstanding Educator honor is incredibly meaningful to me because it reflects not just my own efforts, but the amazing culture of caring that CLC fosters,” Antus said. “As Matthew Kelly says, ‘we should all strive to be the best version of ourselves’, and CLC creates an environment where both students and educators can do exactly that. This recognition affirms that when we surround our students with genuine care and support, remarkable learning happens. I’m grateful to be part of an institution that shares my belief that everybody can learn when they’re embraced by a community that truly cares about their success.” 

Antus has been teaching at CLC since 2021. Prior, she worked at 10 different colleges and universities across Wisconsin, Minnesota and Poland. 

Her teaching philosophy is simple: Everybody can learn when they are surrounded by a culture of caring.  

“CLC exemplifies this philosophy beautifully,” she said. “In my classes, I focus on creating an environment where students feel supported, valued and encouraged to become the best version of themselves. I incorporate active learning techniques, games and simulations to make learning engaging and hands-on. These interactive approaches help students connect with the material in meaningful ways while building confidence and critical thinking skills.” 

Antus says it’s about meeting students where they are and helping them grow through dynamic, participatory learning experiences. 

“Ania’s dedication to her students and her commitment to creating a supportive and engaging learning environment reflects the heart of our mission at CLC,” said Dr. Hara Charlier, President of CLC. “This award is a well-deserved honor that celebrates both her excellence in teaching and the positive impact she has on our students’ lives.” 

Antus will represent CLC at the BOT Award ceremony later this spring and will be under consideration for selection as one of several Minnesota State BOT Educators of the Year. Previous CLC educators to receive this high honor include Darci Goeden, Betsy Picciano, Adam Marcotte, Kari Frisch and Tanya Hoting-Mrazek.