- 2021 Neag School Alumni Awards
- Maria Enrique, Outstanding Early Career Professional
- James Wildman, Outstanding School Educator
- Lauren Rodriguez, Outstanding School Administrator
- Sylvester Kent Butler Jr., Outstanding Higher Education Professional
- Melissa Thom, Outstanding Professional
- Jamelle Elliott, Distinguished Alumna
- Alumni Board Scholarship Recipients
2021 Neag School Outstanding Early Career Professional
A graduate of the Neag School’s Integrated Bachelor’s/Master’s Program, Maria Enrique today is an eighth-grade math teacher at Ellington (Conn.) Middle School known for her welcoming energy and student-centered, innovative teaching. Within her first three years of teaching, she has actively taken part in events, professional development opportunities, and other activities that are making a positive impact on the community in numerous ways. In support of students at Ellington Middle, Enrique advises a statewide student math competition and an after-school study skills club, serves as a track and field coach, has established a summer school math program and a homework help club, and has chaperoned several student trips beyond the traditional classroom. She also has presented to hundreds of math teachers from across the state, while also seeking out ways to share her insights and experience with pre-service teachers, including current Neag School students.
“Maria is a remarkable teacher who truly is a role model for everyone at our school. Her door is always open and she is always excited to share what she is working on in her classes and in her teaching.”
— Victoria Schilling ’16 (ED), ’17 MA, Science Teacher,
Ellington (Conn.) Middle School
Acceptance Speech from Maria Enrique
Well Wishes
“She has made such a significant impact on students and the school. We know that whenever we need something, Maria will be willing to help or participate.”
— Michelle Murray and Mike Nash,
Co-Principals, Ellington Middle School
“Congratulations on this wonderful honor! I am so proud of your achievements.”
— Love, Mom
“Congratulations on this well deserved award. So proud of the work you do. Amazing!”
— Maureen Hahn
“A parent has never been more proud. Congratulations and the best is yet to come.”
— Brian Enrique
“I am SO proud of you! You have worked so hard these past 4 years at EMS and deserve to be recognized for all that you've accomplished! You are an inspiration to all - congratulations!!!”
— Victoria Schilling
“Maria! Congratulations!!!! You've had a wonderful Early Career, and I have no doubt there are many more wonderful years for you, your students, and your colleagues ahead!”
— Megan Staples,
Associate Professor, Neag School of Education
“Congratulations Maria!!!! We always knew you would be an awesome teacher.”
— Aunt Jo and Uncle Dave
“Maria,
Congratulations. So proud of you!!!”
— Mari Enrique
“Congratulations on your much deserved award!”
— Kenneth Welcome
“Congratulations Maria. I’m blessed to be your grandmother!”
— Ann Rudolph