Shady Side Academy proudly announced the recipients of its 2025 annual faculty and staff awards on Tuesday June 10, recognizing individuals whose work exemplifies excellence, innovation, and dedication across the Academy.

The Posner Award, presented annually for outstanding teaching, was awarded to two exemplary educators: Tony Goodwin, Visual Arts Teacher at the Senior School, and Anne Shelby, Second Grade Teacher at the Country Day School.

The Michael J. Farrell Awards, endowed by the Farrell family, celebrate faculty members for exceptional student relationships, outstanding contributions, and innovation in teaching. This year’s recipients include:

• Farrell Award for Exceptional Interactions with Students: Jessica Warner, Spanish Teacher at the Middle School; Carolina Salazar, Spanish Teacher at the Senior School; and Allison Friday, First Grade Teacher at the Junior School
• Farrell Award for Going Above and Beyond: Elizabeth Patterson, Wellness Teacher at the Senior School; and Emily Bigger, Senior Pre-kindergarten Teacher at the Country Day School
• Farrell Award for Innovative Educators: Bethany Smith, First Grade Teacher at the Country Day School; and Kelly Bellini, Arts Teacher at the Junior School

The Class of ’61 Faculty Award for Excellence, established by the Class of 1961 in honor of their 50th reunion, recognizes an early career teacher at the Senior School who shows great promise and commitment. This year’s honoree was Jamison Burke, Science Teacher.

The Ruth and F. Walter Jones Service Prize, which honors willing and selfless service to the Academy, was awarded to Phill Engelken, Assistant Director of Technology and Networking Administrator, for his behind-the-scenes contributions.

The President’s Award for Distinguished Staff Service was presented to Leah Christy, Custodian at Country Day School, in recognition of her exemplary work ethic and positive relationships with students and colleagues.

These awards celebrate the individuals who make Shady Side an extraordinary place to learn, grow, and thrive—where excellence is not just expected, but lived every day.