StM News

At the close of the school year, St. Martin’s faculty and staff gathered in the Dan and Frances White Chapel to celebrate a year of growth and to recognize the remarkable dedication of their colleagues. This annual ceremony honors the individuals whose passion and service help shape the heart of our school.

✨ Honoring Excellence in Education

The J. Gordon and Lou Ann Reische Outstanding Teaching Award
Established in 1988 to honor faculty who exemplify outstanding teaching, the Reische Award celebrates an educator whose empathy, expertise, and dedication leave a lasting impression on our students and community.

This year’s recipient is Counselor Dr. Christina Heath, whose extraordinary work as both a counselor and educator has transformed classrooms across divisions. Dr. Heath blends compassionate support with the latest educational research, using creative techniques to engage students—from puppets to Promethean boards—and fostering a culture of kindness through her signature “Caught Being Kind” moments. Her colleagues call her a trusted sounding board and a quiet innovator. As Pre-K teacher Brook Landry said in her nomination form: “She’s more than a counselor. She’s a treasure.”

The Barbara Ryan Leadership Award
Created to honor longtime staff member and former Interim Head of School Barbara Ryan, this award is presented annually to a staff member who demonstrates exceptional behind-the-scenes leadership and compassion and is a positive influence across the campus.

This year’s honoree is Administrative Assistant Erin Macika, whose calm strength and unwavering support serve not just one, but two divisions. Whether navigating schedule changes or comforting a student, she leads with empathy, adaptability, and grace. Known for her love of animals and deep care for people, Erin exemplifies servant leadership and is an essential part of what makes St. Martin’s feel like home.

The Godiwala Fellowship
Each year, the Godiwala Fellowship offers a faculty member the opportunity to pursue summer professional development. Past recipients have traveled across the globe to further their expertise—from Egypt to Stanford.

This year’s fellowship was awarded to Natalie Ott, a 22-year veteran of the Lower School faculty who will step into a new role teaching Computer Science and STEAM next year. She will attend two prestigious conferences: the International Society for Technology in Education Conference in San Antonio this summer and the Future of Education and Technology Conference in Orlando in early 2026. Natalie’s experience will bring exciting innovations in technology back to St. Martin’s classrooms.

Years of Service Awards

St. Martin's also recognized team members celebrating milestone years of service. Their commitment reflects the strength, spirit, and continuity that define our community.

5 Years
Madison Albarado, Frank Canzoneri, André LeBeau, Vivian Nguyen, Tina Rivas, Frances Roney, and Bridget Tierney

10 Years
Linda Jouet, Chris Kopp, and Julie Warren

15 Years
Andrea Bonnette, Kathryn Faught, and Allison Fresneda

20 Years
Fr. Jeff Millican, Susan Pendleton, and Keith Schwarz

25 Years
Mike Falati

30 Years
Mary Quinet

Retirement Recognition
With deep gratitude, we celebrate the career of Frank Gendusa, who is retiring after years of dedicated service. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of Saints.

This year-end celebration was more than a moment of applause—it was a reflection of the deep relationships and shared mission that make St. Martin’s Episcopal School such a special place to learn and grow. We are grateful to each honoree for the ways our incredibly talented and dedicated faculty and staff help shape our students every day.