2026 Lilly Teacher Creativity Fellowship Recipients

To thrive as an excellent teacher, you need to be a lifetime learner.

Three Avon educators have been welcomed into the Lilly Endowment's Teacher Creativity Fellowship Program for 2026. Congratulations to Dina Gulley and Devin Noyes of Avon High School and Sam Smith of River Birch Elementary School for earning this honor.

“Dedicated K-12 educators throughout Indiana work tirelessly each day to help their students grow and succeed,” said Ted Maple, the Endowment’s vice president for education. “The Teacher Creativity Fellowship Program is designed to honor their hard work and support their plans for renewal so they can continue to make a difference in the lives of their students and in their local communities.”

Meet the recipients below and read about the project descriptions that will be funded by grants of up to $15,000. 

	Dina Gulley, Avon High School “Flavors of Europe: A Journey for Cultural Immersion and Professional Renewal” - blend passion with professional growth by exploring European culinary traditions, focusing on the relationship between food, culture and health
	Devin Noyes, Avon High School “Still Waters, Rising Peaks: A Journey Through Asia’s Sacred Landscapes” - explore the physical and spiritual geography of Bali, Cambodia, Laos and China and study the interconnection of the natural features of the region with the spiritual practices of the people
	Samantha Smith, River Birch Elementary School “Daydreaming of Romantic Alpine Heights and Peaceful Vibes” - deepen cultural perspective, inspire new ideas, and restore physical and mental well-being while hiking 105 miles along the Tour du Mont Blanc trail and engaging in a yoga retreat

Congratulations, Dina, Devin, and Samantha. Thank you for remaining as committed to learning as you are to teaching.