Durst named Best Professor of 2026

Dr. Hope Durst, assistant professor of education, was named the Best College Professor in The Commercial Dispatch’s “Best of the Triangle” for 2026.

The “Best of the Triangle” is a yearly competition where the public decides who is the best at what they do by voting. The contest encompasses the entire Golden Triangle.

Durst has been nominated for Best Professor every year since 2023. She was also named Best Professor in 2024.

“Being named Best Professor is an honor that means far more to me than personal recognition,” Durst said. “It represents the fulfillment of a mission that has guided me throughout my career. My mother always taught me that the greatest way to help a person is to help their child, and that belief has inspired my commitment to education. As an assistant professor of education at The W, I am fortunate to help prepare future teachers who will shape the lives of generations of students. The opportunity to influence those who will go on to educate, encourage and empower children is one of the greatest privileges of my profession, and I am deeply grateful for the chance to make that impact.”

She has taught a variety of courses in the elementary education program and the Master of Arts in Teaching program. Currently, Durst teaches residency field experience, methods courses, educational technology and graduate courses.

“Working at The W has been a masterclass in collaboration, purpose and the power of a shared vision,” she said. “Every colleague I have the privilege of working alongside is deeply committed to student success and dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our students. I am profoundly grateful to be part of such a special institution and to serve under the leadership of inspiring administrators whose guidance, support and commitment to excellence continually motivate me to grow as an educator.”