Congratulations to Ben Goodrich (left), former MKA Upper School Math Department Chair and newly appointed Middle School Science Department Chair and Associate Director of Curriculum and Professional Development, who has been named the recipient of the 2012 Founders' Cup for Teaching Excellence.
Presented annually by the Alumni Association, the Founders' Cup is based on nominations from all MKA constituencies and honors a full-time faculty member who exemplifies the highest levels of teaching, as well as contributes to the well-being of the MKA community, both in and out of school.
Goodrich, who received his bachelor’s degree from Brown University and a master’s in education from Harvard University, has taught at MKA since 1999. In addition to teaching physics and math and chairing the Math Department at the Upper School, Goodrich has also served as Upper School Dean of Students and has been active in the Outdoor Club.
In his first official role as Alumni Council President, Richard Stanton ’87 presented the award, reading from many of the nominations received on Goodrich’s behalf that came from students, alumni, parents and peers, among which were the following:
“My child raves about and praises Mr. Goodrich’s approachable demeanor, pleasant smile and supportive nature. I can tell he is a great teacher, with thought-provoking questions and insightful teaching methods.”
“Ben Goodrich is “loved by all, always smiling, and ready to give help or advice to any confused face in the crowd.”
““Team player” is certainly one of the most overused personal descriptions used these days. That being said, I can’t think of a better description for Ben, who truly put the team first when he took over the teaching duties of a colleague in need of support.”
And finally, perhaps one of the strongest endorsements that a teacher could ever hope to receive from a student: “Mr. Goodrich’s love of teaching and educating students has made having him as a teacher a true honor.”
