Shepherding a school community through faith, leadership and service.
This week, Concordia University celebrates four alumni who have been recognized with 2026 South Wisconsin District Teacher of the Year Awards.
Their work reflects a deep commitment to excellence, compassion and purpose. Grounded in faith and called to serve, each educator lives out their vocation in the classroom, making a lasting difference in the lives entrusted to their care. This recognition is not only a professional honor, but also a testament to the way a Concordia education prepares graduates to lead and serve with integrity in the world.
Libby MacGillis
Principal at St. John Lutheran School in Plymouth, Wis.
2004 and 2011 alumna with a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education, Biology, as well as a master’s in Educational Administration and Curriculum and Instruction
How has your understanding of teaching as a Christian vocation shaped the way you serve your students and school community each day?
I view teaching — and especially school leadership — as a calling rather than simply a career. Understanding my work as a Christian vocation means I approach each day with the mindset that God has placed me exactly where I am for a purpose. My role as principal is not just about academics or operations, but about shepherding students, families and staff with Christ-centered care. That view shapes how I make decisions, how I lead conversations and how I respond to challenges. I strive to reflect Christ with patience, grace and consistency, while also holding high expectations. Whether I am in classrooms, greeting students at the door or supporting teachers, I see each interaction as an opportunity to serve others and point them to Jesus through both words and actions.
Can you share a moment in your teaching journey when you clearly saw God at work through your classroom or relationships with students?
One of the clearest ways I see God at work is not always in a single dramatic moment, but in the steady growth of relationships over time. I have experienced moments when a struggling student finally feels safe enough to open up, or when a family expresses gratitude for being supported during a difficult season. Those moments are reminders that God is working through relationships — often quietly and patiently. There have also been times when conversations, prayers or even simple encouragement came at exactly the right moment, far beyond my own planning or ability. Those experiences reaffirm that God is present in our schools each day, using imperfect people to accomplish His perfect will.
Looking back on your time at Concordia, what experiences or mentors most prepared you to teach with excellence, compassion and confidence in Christ?
My time at Concordia University Wisconsin laid a strong foundation for both my professional skills and my faith. The integration of rigorous academics with a clear Lutheran identity helped me understand that excellence and faith are not separate — they belong together. Professors who modeled servant leadership, integrity and care for students made a lasting impression on me. They challenged me to think critically, reflect deeply, and teach and lead with purpose. Field experiences also prepared me to navigate real-world challenges with confidence, knowing that Christ is at the center of all we do. Concordia helped shape my identity as an educator who teaches and leads with both competence and compassion.
What encouragement would you offer to current Concordia students or future teachers who feel called to serve in Lutheran education today?
I would encourage them to trust God’s calling, even when the work feels overwhelming or uncertain. Truly listen to what God is saying and jump in ready to do the work. Lutheran education is deeply meaningful work, and it matters more than we often realize. You may not always see immediate results, but God is using you to plant seeds of faith, knowledge and character that will grow over time. Lean into your community, continue growing professionally, and stay rooted in God’s Word. Remember that you do not serve alone — God equips and sustains those He calls.
What’s your favorite thing about CUW?
My favorite thing about CUW is the way faith is intentionally woven into every aspect of the educational experience. Concordia does not just prepare students for careers; it prepares them for lives of service, leadership and purpose. I also deeply value the strong CUW connection within Lutheran education. Many of the teachers I work with have come through the Concordia system, and that shared foundation in faith and excellence is evident in our schools. On a personal level, it is especially meaningful to now experience CUW as a parent, as my oldest son is currently a freshman studying elementary education and theological languages. Seeing the next generation being formed for service in the Church and Lutheran schools makes CUW’s mission feel both personal and enduring.
Additional 2026 SWD Teachers
Read about the teachers featured in this series:
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Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world.