Honoring teachers whose lasting impact continues to inspire

Members of Northwestern University’s Class of 2019 are encouraged to recognize high school teachers who have made a big difference in their lives by nominating them for the University’s ninth annual Distinguished Secondary Teacher Award (DSTA), a prestigious honor given to several outstanding high school educators each year.

Four or five high school teachers will be selected and honored at Commencement next June. Each teacher and his or her school also will receive an award of $5,000.

• The deadline for nominations is Saturday, Dec. 8. 

This award, sponsored by the Office of the President and supported by the Associated Student Government, recognizes the transforming power of teachers in our lives and our communities.

In selecting the winners, the selection committee considers essays from seniors about their former high school teachers. Committee members also consider portfolios submitted by the nominated teachers that include an explanation of their teaching philosophy and letters of recommendation. A small group of finalists are interviewed and the committee makes recommendations to President Morton Schapiro for recognition.

Winners will be notified in April, and arrangements will be made for the winner and their guests to be honored during 2019 Commencement Exercises (June 19, 2019 to June 21, 2019).

“We want very much for you to think about a high school teacher in your own life who captures the spirit of this award,” President Schapiro said in a letter to students of the class of 2019. 

If you are a graduating senior and wish to nominate a high school teacher, please use the teacher nomination form.

View a short video describing the impact of this award.

If you have any questions about the Distinguished Secondary Teacher Award, please e-mail DSTAwards@northwestern.edu or visit the award’s website.