Gideon Hawley Teacher Recognition Award

The Gideon Hawley Teacher Recognition Award commemorates Gideon Hawley, an 1809 graduate of Union College who is distinguished historically for his leadership in education and concern for teacher development in New York State during the nineteenth century. As the first Superintendent of Public Instruction, he laid the foundations for the public elementary schools of the State. The Board of Regents appointed him Secretary in 1814, an office held for twenty-seven years. As both Superintendent and Secretary, he became a dominant figure in New York State education. He was largely responsible for the establishment of the first normal school in New York, which is now the State University of New York at Albany.

This award is usually presented on Founders Day, in late February.

Recipient for the 2024 Gideon Hawley Award - Yancey Dobbs Miller, a Chemistry Teacher at Peachtree Ridge High School in Suwanee, GA, nominated by Rajveer Singh '27.

Consider recognizing one of your high school teachers who made a significant difference in your education:

• Nominate them for Union’s Gideon Hawley Teacher Recognition Award

It will be presented to the selected teacher during the Founders Day Ceremony on Thursday, February 27, 2025.

The Gideon Hawley Award:

• is named for the 1809 graduate of Union College who was New York State’s first superintendent of public education.
• is awarded to high school teachers who have had a significant and continuing influence on the academic life of Union students.

Please submit your nomination here.

Deadline: Thursday, October 31, 2024.

If you have any questions, please contact Carol Mangano at manganoc@union.edu.

P.S. The teacher selected and the student who nominated the teacher will be guests of the College at breakfast on the day of the ceremony. This award has become a tradition which the College celebrates the lifetime contributions of teachers to their student.

• Gideon Hawley Award past recipients