Anie Robinson, science department chair and teacher, was recently honored with a University of Chicago Outstanding Educator Award for her dedication to students.

Each year, newly admitted University of Chicago students can nominate an educator who played a significant role in their education and made a positive impact in their lives. Thousands of students submitted their nominations.

“It’s really humbling. When we’re living in the day-to-day, I really don’t think too much about the impact that we’re having but it’s rewarding to hear that I have that effect in the classroom,” Robinson said. “I love the fact that we have the freedom to approach our curriculum in a way that works for our students but also prepares them for the AP exam. I think our student body is so amazing. Their effort and their excitement have blown me away and pushed me to be better.”

Robinson also credited her colleagues for helping her build an open-minded, collaborative department.

“It does not surprise me at all that Anie Robinson was given this award,” said Dr. Matt Balossi, Assistant Head of School for Academics. “Not only as a department chair but as our primary AP and Organic Chemistry teacher for the last six years, she has been a phenomenal teacher from her first day at Sage Hill. Kids love her; she’s very well respected by her colleagues and we’re lucky to have her.”

University of Chicago administrators define outstanding educators as those who thoughtfully approach instruction, share an infectious love for learning and care for students both inside and outside of the classroom.


“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,” a university spokesperson said in a prepared statement. “We thank them for going above and beyond the call of duty every day and leaving an impression that will be carried over a lifetime.”

Robinson joined Sage Hill in 2016 and currently teaches AP Chemistry and Organic Chemistry. During her time at Sage Hill, she has provided guidance for the Chemistry Olympiad team in preparation for the annual ACS exam. Robinson graduated with college honors and cum laude distinction from UCLA with a major in Chemistry.

Robinson and her fellow award winners will receive a commemorative award, certificate, and letter that includes details from the student they were nominated by.