Dr. Paul Tayyar, Teacher of the Year

Dr. Paul Tayyar was voted Golden West College’s Teacher of the Year and is the District’s nominee for the Orange County Teacher of the Year (TOTY).

The Orange County Teachers of the Year (TOTY) program provides recognition for outstanding teachers in Orange County. Community colleges districts may each nominate one teacher per district. Candidates are honored at an annual recognition ceremony hosted by the program sponsors.

The Student Activities Office accepts nominations for Teacher of the Year from the students. The Academic Senate reviews the nominations and selects the winner.

Dr. Paul Tayyar began teaching with the Coast District in 2001, joining GWC in 2004.  He teaches a variety of classes from Beginning Composition to Appreciation of Literature, each with a focus of student engagement.  One student commented that, “his classes are always rich and thoughtful because of how he works to make sure everyone is engaged and participating.” Another student remarked that in Dr. Tayyar’s classes, the “topics were always relevant and struck our interests even through the diversity in the room.”

Paul is an accomplished writer with five volumes of poetry and a novella published over the last five years. His passion for literature is infectious.  One student said, “I’ve discovered a new appreciation for good writing.  He has introduced me to engaging and thought-provoking literature and poetry.” Paul leaves an impact on his students. They have commented that they will always utilize what they’ve learned from him, inside and outside the classroom, and that he is a man of integrity, honesty and pride.  We are proud to have Paul represent GWC and our District as the 2013 Teacher of the Year.

Congratulations, Paul.