Napa Valley College Profs Earn 'Distinguished Teaching' Honors

NAPA VALLEY, CA— Two professors whose teaching has shaped generations of Napa Valley College students are taking center stage this year as the college names its 2026 McPherson Distinguished Teaching Award recipients before unveiling a foundation investment aimed at strengthening support for funding.

The Napa Valley College Foundation announced Greg Miraglia, professor of LGBT Studies and Criminal Justice, and Forest Quinlan, professor of Chemistry, as this year’s McPherson honorees, recognizing excellence in teaching, mentorship and student engagement.

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Miraglia, a dean emeritus and longtime educator, was honored for work spanning criminal justice education, the Pride Learning Community and advocacy beyond campus, including service on the board of the Matthew Shepard Foundation.

Quinlan was recognized for transforming chemistry instruction through modernized labs, rigorous teaching and an interactive classroom culture that has earned him a devoted following among students.

Established in 1987 by founding college president Dr. Harry McPherson, the award recognizes faculty whose teaching leaves a lasting impact on students and the college community. More than 70 Napa Valley College educators have received the honor.

The 2026 recipients will be celebrated at a reception Thursday, April 30, at 4 p.m.

Alongside the faculty awards, the foundation announced a $28,000 grant from The Roger J. Trinchero Foundation to fund a one-year subscription to Foundant CommunitySuite, a customer relationship management platform intended to strengthen donor engagement, improve grant management, and support data-driven operations.

The investment grows to $48,000 over two years through an additional $20,000 commitment in 2027 to renew the subscription.

Foundation leaders said the new system will deepen relationships with donors and stakeholders while improving the organization’s capacity to support Napa Valley College students and programs.

Paul Krsek, chief executive officer of 5T Wealth and de facto executive director of The Roger J. Trinchero Foundation, said the grant reflects a commitment to expanding the foundation’s reach and effectiveness across Napa Valley.