For Macy Nesslage, winning the Young Alumni Award is a reminder that she has found her calling. A first-year teacher in the Wentzville School District, Nesslage takes pride in her students’ success and in the daily interactions that remind her of the difference she is making.
With many family members having attended Lindenwood, including her mother, Lindenwood was a familiar presence throughout her childhood. Nesslage decided to follow her mother’s footsteps once again and pursue a career in education after falling in love during her campus tour.
As a freshman in the College of Education and Human Services, Nesslage gained real-world experience by observing elementary school teachers which reaffirmed her career choice and allowed her to confidently pursue the right career.
After graduating, Nesslage began teaching first grade at the elementary school she attended as a child. She describes the experience as returning home, with former teachers now being coworkers.
As an alumna, Nesslage has remained closely connected to Lindenwood, now mentoring a Lindenwood student teacher at her school. Nesslage describes being able to relate to the student-teaching experience, provide encouragement, and create a connection that benefits both the student and the teacher.
The positive experience at Lindenwood also influenced her family. Nesslage encouraged her sister to consider the University in her own college search. With her sister now studying at Lindenwood, Nesslage also decided to return for postgraduate studies.
Reflecting on her first year in the classroom, Nesslage recalled times when connecting with students helped them feel more confident and engaged. In one of these interactions, Nesslage learned that her student was a Taylor Swift fan. Bonding with the student over this shared fandom led to increased classroom participation and higher test scores for the student.
Teachers, Nesslage believes, often work without recognition, a reality she has seen through her mother’s decades-long career in education. Receiving the Young Alumni Award offered a moment to reflect on the impact of her work and the importance of acknowledging those who serve students.
Nesslage’s journey to winning the Young Alumni Award shows exactly how real experiences lead to real success. Nesslage grew up in the Lindenwood community and has followed in the footsteps of her early role models. In returning to Lindenwood for postgraduate studies, Nesslage hopes to continue learning, give back to the University, and pave the way for the next generation.