The Niskayuna Community Foundation surprised two Niskayuna High School teachers with the 19th annual Murray Award for Excellence in Education. The awards were presented to Kelly Millett, an English teacher, and Robyn Salvin, a Social Studies teacher. Each awardee receives an engraved plaque and $2,500 for their professional development.
The annual Murray Award was created in 2004 by Kathy Murray Crowe and Jeanne Murray Veasey, whose parents, Edwards and Sally Murray were involved in the formation of the Niskayuna High School. They believed that providing the finest education required hiring the most creative, driven, and inspirational teachers. The award is also given in memory of Jeanne Murray Veasey, who has since passed away.
A committee representing students, parents and peers chose the recipients and the Niskayuna Community Foundation facilitated the selection process and award presentation. Criteria included outstanding classroom practices as well as growth potential and a school presence that inspires and positively impacts students, colleagues and the community.
Kelly Millett goes out of her way to forge connections with students and even makes a special effort to attend their games. She encourages all to participate by having circle seating in her classroom. Ms. Millett offers support to students beyond the classroom. She has been known to help previous and current students with college essays. She is innovative and creative with her teaching and works hard to make sure her students are successful in and outside of her class.
Robyn Salvin is described as an outstanding person, educator, and leader at Niskayuna High School. She is known to build real and true connections with her students. Ms. Salvin makes her class interesting, engaging, and a safe space for students to explore differing opinions on tough issues. She does not back away from uncomfortable conversations about topics in class and teaches by example how to have a productive discussion with someone you may disagree with.
At the request of the Murray family, this award is not competitive, but is intended to be an annual opportunity to select educators who represent the overall excellence of the high school staff and educational program.
ABOUT THE NISKAYUNA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION Founded in December, 1999, NCF’s mission is to inspire generosity, encourage equity, and invest in local solutions by serving the Niskayuna Community through grantmaking, awarding of scholarships and supporting collaboration. NCF has awarded more than $420,000 in grants to over 100 organizations; supporting children in crisis, senior safety, innovative education, town-wide entertainment, and other programs that enrich lives and meet critical needs. NCF has also provided $185,000 in teacher awards and student scholarships. As an affiliate and geographic fund of the Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region (CFGCR), NCF has its own volunteer Board of Directors with the ability to direct resources to support the town and its residents while benefiting from CFGCR’s administrative support and pooled investment portfolio. The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region has worked to strengthen the Greater Capital Region through philanthropy since 1968.
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