Nominations open for STEM Teaching Acclamation
Hartford, CT (March 6, 2024) The Connecticut Science Center is proud to introduce the Dr. Theodore S. Sergi K-12 Educator of the Year Award, an honor bestowed at the annual STEM Achievement Awards, presented at the Connecticut Science Center Annual Gala in October. This prestigious award recognizes exceptional K-12 Educators who are making significant contributions to science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) learning in their classrooms.
This award is named for Dr. Theodore S. Sergi, a lifelong educator and leader in Connecticut, and founding President & CEO of the Connecticut Science Center. He started his career as a classroom teacher which led him to the State of Connecticut Department of Education, where he served as Commissioner for 9 years. His vision and dedication were instrumental in shaping the educational initiatives in the state, including significant advancements in public school funding, state testing programs, and the integration of comprehensive educational data. After retiring from the state, Dr. Sergi became the first President & CEO of the Connecticut Science Center. Under his leadership, the Connecticut Science Center was transformed from a concept into a vital educational institution that engages and inspires generations through science. After leading its creation, Dr. Sergi retired as President & CEO when the Science Center opened in 2009. He has continued to serve as a valued member of the Board of Trustees, from which he will retire this year. Throughout his 21 years with the Science Center, Dr. Sergi championed their partnerships with schoolteachers to make science, technology, engineering, and math accessible and fun for all students.
“As grateful as I am for the many opportunities, I have had to support education through my years, my years as a classroom teacher are among those I cherish most,” said Dr. Sergi. “I am deeply honored to be associated with the recognition of Connecticut’s finest, most inspiring educators, year after year.” Every year, the Connecticut Science Center celebrates individuals and organizations who share its commitment to fostering curiosity and lifelong learning in STEM. The Dr. Theodore S. Sergi K-12 Educator of the Year Award amplifies this mission by celebrating the frontline educators who bring STEM subjects to life in classrooms across the state. Other Science Center STEM Achievement Awards include the Higher Education Award, Non-Profit Organization Award, Innovator Award (Individual), Innovator Award (Organization), and Youth Award.
“Dr. Sergi’s legacy is one of tireless dedication to education and unwavering belief in the power of science to transform lives,” said Matt Fleury, President & CEO of the Connecticut Science Center, “This award, named in honor of a truly great friend to learning, aims to recognize the educators who embody these values, making STEM accessible, enjoyable, and inspiring for students of all ages and backgrounds.”
Nominations for the inaugural Dr. Theodore S. Sergi K-12 Educator of the Year Award and other STEM Achievement Awards, along with the Petit Family Foundation Women in Science Leadership Awards, are now open through May 31. For more information and nomination guidelines, please visit CTScienceCenter.org/Awards. Awards will be presented at the Connecticut Science Center Gala: Close Encounters of the STEM Kind on Saturday, October 5, 2024.
About the Connecticut Science Center
The LEED- Gold certified Connecticut Science Center, located in downtown Hartford, sparks creative imagination and an appreciation for science by immersing visitors in fun and educational hands-on, minds-on interactive experiences while maintaining an environmentally conscious presence. Serving more than 3.5 million people since opening in 2009, the Science Center features more than 165 exhibits in ten galleries, covering a range of topics including space and earth sciences, physical sciences, biology, the Connecticut River watershed, alternative energy sources, Connecticut inventors and innovations, a children’s gallery, and much more. Other features include the state’s only year-round butterfly habitat, five educational labs, a 200-seat 3D digital theater, function room, gift store, and ongoing events for all ages. The Science Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing science education throughout the state of Connecticut and New England, providing learning opportunities for students and adults of all ages, and engaging the community in scientific exploration. The Connecticut Science Center is the home to the Joyce D. and Andrew J. Mandell Academy for Teachers, offering powerful professional development for educators. More information: CTScienceCenter.org or (860) SCIENCE