Two faculty members from USAP Community School, Alistar Panashe, Physics Teacher, and Rebecca Zeigler Mano, School College Counselor and Director, were among 2024 Yale Educator Award recipients. They were nominated by Hussein Panashe Zindonda, USAP Community School ’23 and Yale University ’28, a first year student considering double majoring in electrical engineering and computer science.’28
The Yale Educator Recognition Program recognizes outstanding educators from around the world who support and inspire their students to perform at high levels and to achieve excellence. Of this year’s 320 nominees, who represent 39 states and 24 countries, 75 teachers and 20 counselors were selected to receive the award. Matriculating students are invited to nominate high school educators, and a committee of Yale admissions officers reviewed each nomination individually and designated recipients. The winners were recently sent their awards with congratulatory letters, and administrators of the high schools were notified of their achievement.
Hussein Panashe Zindonda shared why he nominated his teachers, Ms.Alistar and Mai Mano, for the award – ‘‘Let your life speak, the words still echo within me, a reminder of USAP Community School’s profound impact. The dedicated teachers not only taught, but also inspired purpose and direction in my life. Their influence has stayed with me, shaping my journey and future at Yale University. I am grateful for the transformative experience and lessons from these USAP educators that continue to guide me.”
The Yale Admissions Office attributes the exceptional quality of the Yale student body to educators like these recipients of the 2024 Yale Educator Award, who shape their students long before they attend Yale.
Ms. Alistar Panashe was thrilled to have received the award and shared these sentiments: ‘‘I am deeply humbled to receive the Yale Educator Award. As an engineer-turned-educator, I have discovered that teaching and mentoring have a far greater impact on society than any technical skill or expertise. I believe I am more than just a Physics teacher – I am teaching students to be problem solvers. Over my four years at USAP Community School, and especially as a USAP alum myself, I am proud that I have inspired students to explore science and technology through initiatives like Science Fair and Robotics, empowering them to become innovators and problem-solvers. This award reinforces my belief that being an educator is the most rewarding profession, allowing me to make a lasting impact on lives. I’m grateful for the opportunity to teach and raise a new generation of African leaders who will shape the world.’’
Rebecca Zeigler Mano shared with humility the honor: “The Yale Educator Award is a special honor for both Ms. Alistar and myself, not only because it comes from a top university, but expressly because the nomination grew from the gratitude of one of our students. Working with bright, determined and motivated USAP students is a blessing and a thrill, and I truly believe that each day I learn as much if not more than I teach. The faculty at our school is what shapes our community school to be such a vibrant space. I share this award with all of our faculty and commend them for their commitment to the highest standards of excellence in their classrooms and as mentors and guides for our students.”
Congratulations to “Ms Alistar” and “Mai Mano” for being recognized with Yale University Educator Awards for 2024!
