GREATER LAFAYETTE – Greater Lafayette Commerce (GLC) is pleased to announce the 2026 Golden Apple Award winners, honoring five outstanding teachers in Tippecanoe County who have made a lasting impact on students, schools and families. This year’s honorees are:

  • Ann Hammons, William Henry Harrison High School – 39 years teaching experience
  • Celeste Fernandez, West Lafayette Intermediate School – 11 years teaching experience
  • Sara Wright, James Cole Elementary School – 20 years teaching experience
  • Sarah Harmon, Dayton Elementary School – 23 years teaching experience
  • Lisa Merryman, Woodland Elementary School – 28 years teaching experience

The Golden Apple Awards recognize excellence in teaching and the powerful difference educators make in the lives of students. Winners are nominated by students, parents and colleagues, then interviewed and selected through a rigorous process by a committee.

“The Golden Apple Awards are one of the clearest reflections of what this community values,” said Mikel Berger, president and CEO of Greater Lafayette Commerce. “We’re expressing our gratitude to the teachers who build momentum for students and help them believe in themselves before they know how to do it on their own.”

The stories behind this year’s group range widely: a veteran high school English teacher credited with sharpening students’ critical thinking, a fourth-grade teacher known for creating a sense of belonging and an elementary educator described as a steady force for children who need structure without losing the freedom to be kids.

At William Henry Harrison High School, Ann Hammons has inspired generations of learners and is recognized for building students’ love of literature, encouraging critical thinking and building relationships across the school community.

Celeste Fernandez is celebrated at West Lafayette Intermediate School for fostering a welcoming classroom culture rooted in creativity and belonging, building relationships that last well beyond the school year while also offering opportunities like after-school clubs and hands-on learning experiences.

At James Cole Elementary School, Sara Wright is known for the strong relationships she builds with students, her innovation and her dedication to helping every child feel supported and confident.

Sarah Harmon, a high ability teacher at Dayton Elementary School, is recognized for building a classroom where students feel connected and confident, and for her leadership in creating meaningful experiences for students through extracurricular activities and school community-building efforts.

At Woodland Elementary School, Lisa Merryman is honored for her child-centered approach, strong community partnerships and creative, hands-on learning opportunities that help students thrive academically and emotionally.

Greater Lafayette Commerce has proudly presented the Golden Apple Awards since 1987, and each winner receives a $1,000 check in unrestricted funds.

‘The awards are made possible each year through the support of Raeco Realty, the presenting sponsor of the Golden Apple Awards.

“At Raeco Realty, we believe that a thriving community is built by the people who pour into it every day, and no one exemplifies that more than our educators,” said Josh Shives, owner of Raeco Realty. “It is a privilege for us to not only support the Golden Apple Awards but to play an active role in capturing and sharing the inspiring stories of these teachers. They are shaping the future of Greater Lafayette, and we are honored to help celebrate them.”

The 2026 Golden Apple Awards ceremony will be held Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at the Greater Lafayette Career Academy. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the program begins at 6:00 p.m. The ceremony is open to the public, and students and their families are encouraged to attend.

About Greater Lafayette Commerce
Headquartered in Lafayette, Indiana, Greater Lafayette Commerce (GLC) has been the region’s premier chamber of commerce and leading economic development organization since 1927. By uniting business, education, government and civic partners, GLC drives growth, supports local enterprises and enhances the quality of life in Greater Lafayette. Learn more at greaterlafayettecommerce.com.