UCR Business School Lecturer John Acker encourages his students “to argue like grownups,” he says. “To see their classes as an opportunity to mature, not just as a place to learn.” His philosophy of teaching extends beyond the classroom walls, emphasizing that education is not only about mastering technical skills but also about developing the ability to think critically, communicate persuasively, and grow as responsible professionals.

“In the Business Writing course, my team and I focus on identifying, creating, and communicating professional value through writing, whether it’s a complex business proposal or a simple email to a colleague,” Acker explains. He stresses that effective communication is at the core of business success, and that learning how to tailor messages to audiences is one of the most valuable skills a student can carry into their career.

Acker was recently recognized by students, who voted for him to receive the 2021-2022 Golden Apple Award for Teaching Excellence for business administration prerequisite and core courses. This award is given annually to professors who make a profound impact on student learning, both through the clarity of their teaching and the care they show for their students’ success. He was among five professors chosen for the honor in varying categories, and he received a $2,500 prize in recognition of his dedication.

Students’ testimonials highlight why Acker’s approach resonates so strongly. “Professor Acker makes management writing, which is a very practical course, interesting and engaging,” wrote a voting student. “Rather than just a presentation, he built projects into the curriculum as a way to test our knowledge and apply it to the real world.” For many, his teaching has helped transform what might otherwise feel like routine assignments into meaningful opportunities to grow professional confidence.

Another student described the impact of his mentorship more directly: “Professor Acker has taught me a lot of transferable skills. I was able to touch up my cover letter and résumé, and I received offers when I applied for jobs.” This kind of feedback illustrates how Acker’s lessons extend far beyond a single course. Students leave his classes not only with improved writing but also with a stronger sense of how to present themselves to future employers.

In addition to his teaching at UCR, Acker runs a professional editing business, which keeps him closely connected to the expectations and needs of real-world clients. His academic background is rooted in 19th-century American literature, an area that informs his deep interest in language, rhetoric, and the ways that ideas are communicated. His scholarly interests include religion and literature, academic editing, and professional writing, all of which intersect to enrich his instruction. He also contributes to the University Writing Program, helping students across disciplines build stronger foundations in communication.

Clearly, Acker’s teaching philosophy has made an impression on those he instructs. His blend of rigor, humor, and practical application encourages students to see writing as a tool for shaping their futures. “College students want to change the world, usually in five pages or less,” he says with a laugh. “I love tapping into that passion to help develop mature goal-driven professionals.” This passion for nurturing students’ ambitions continues to define his teaching career and serves as a reminder of the lasting impact a dedicated educator can have on generations of business leaders.