Dr. Robert Webber Receives University of Chicago Outstanding Educator Award

 

Dr. Robert Webber, a world language teacher at St. Mary's Ryken, has received the University of Chicago Outstanding Educator Award. 

An Outstanding Educator shapes young minds in meaningful ways—thoughtfully approaching instruction, sharing an infectious love for learning, and caring for students both inside and outside of the classroom. Each year, newly admitted UChicago students have the opportunity to reflect on their time in school and nominate an educator who played a significant role in their education, made a positive impact in their lives, and whose influence has brought them to where they are today.

Trey Owens, member of the St. Mary's Ryken Class of 2025 and current freshman at UChicago said: "As an educator, Dr. Webber is simply phenomenal— he explains advanced concepts at an academically-appropriate level whilst not intellectually pigeonholing students. I have never seen him refuse a genuine inquiry or leave a student with an unanswered question, and it is this absolute enthusiasm for his field that inspires me."

The University of Chicago is honored to recognize excellence in teaching and sincerely congratulates this year’s Outstanding Educator Award winners, who are exceptional in their field and role models for all students. The University deeply appreciates the lively, curious minds that these educators have nurtured and inspired. We thank them for going above and beyond every day and leaving an impression that will last a lifetime.

“Dr. Webber embodies the very best of what it means to be an educator at St. Mary’s Ryken,” said Principal Tom Campbell. “His deep knowledge, genuine care for students, and passion for languages inspire curiosity and confidence in every student. We are incredibly proud that the University of Chicago has recognized the same excellence our community experiences every day in his classroom.”

All award winners receive a commemorative award, certificate, and letter that includes details from the student who nominated them.