Kaskaskia College’s Bill Waggoner Named Illinois’ Top Post-Secondary Ag Educator

CENTRALIA, IL - Kaskaskia College proudly announces that Agriculture Professor Bill Waggoner has been honored with the prestigious Golden Owl Award, recognizing him as the top post-secondary agriculture educator in Illinois. Presented by the Illinois Association of Vocational Agriculture Teachers, the award highlights Waggoner's outstanding commitment to agricultural education and student success.

A passionate educator and advocate for agricultural literacy, Waggoner has been shaping the next generation of agricultural leaders for more than two decades. After beginning his teaching career in 2002, he joined Kaskaskia College in 2011 and has since become an indispensable part of the KC Agriculture Department. He currently teaches courses in agronomy and ag business and also serves as an advisor to both the Ag Club and Collegiate Farm Bureau.

"Bill Waggoner is more than an instructor; he is a mentor, a motivator, and a true champion of student success," said KC President George Evans. "His ability to connect with students both inside and outside the classroom exemplifies the mission of Kaskaskia College. We are incredibly proud to see him recognized at the state level for his dedication and excellence."

Fellow ag instructor Aaron Heinzmann praised Waggoner's leadership and influence on the program's growth. "Bill's dedicated work ethic has helped grow the KC agriculture program through great classroom instruction and outstanding recruiting. He is exceptional at connecting with students, especially through hands-on laboratory activities."

Waggoner shares credit for the program's success with his colleagues and students. "I'm privileged to do what I do, he said. Aaron and I work great together, and were excited to welcome a third ag teacher to meet growing demand." The third instructor is David Stine, a KC alum and current part-time teacher who will transition to full-time later this year.

Current student Blake Twenhafel, who serves as the 2024-25 Vice President of Illinois Professional Ag Students (PAS), shared, "Even though I'm in my last semester, I will never forget the memorable experiences I've had in his classroom and through KC's ag events."

In addition to teaching, Waggoner runs his own grain farming operation, continuing a family tradition, and brings that real-world experience into the classroom daily. His commitment to agriculture and education continues to shape not only careers but lives.

For more information about the KC Agriculture Program, visit www.kaskaskia.edu/agriculture or contact the Admissions Office at 618-545-3000.