Theology Teacher Alex Hall has been awarded the Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award for his commitment to Catholic school teaching as of November 2.

“When I first found out, I was entirely surprised,” Mr. Hall said. “I had no idea that I was nominated. So when I got an email, I was like ‘oh, that is pretty awesome.’”

In a press release today, Emerson said the long-standing annual program honors instructors throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area who are selected by their school administration for their commendable dedication and profound impact to their students and school community. 

“Educators have a unique opportunity to directly change the lives of their students,” Akberet Boykin Farr, vice president of human resources – corporate functions at Emerson, said. “When a teacher goes above and beyond in their role, their students not only learn, but also receive encouragement to explore their passions and become better versions of themselves. Congratulations to all our honorees on this much-deserved recognition.”

Mr. Hall is one of over 100 local educators to receive the award, and one of only four from the Archdiocese of St. Louis.

“High quality ‘best practice’ instruction is key to an outstanding school,” Archbishop Mitchell Rozanski said. “Not only has he distinguished himself in this area, but he serves as a model to his fellow teachers and inspires confidence and pride in the families at De Smet Jesuit High School.”

Mr. Hall has been working at De Smet Jesuit for 10 years. He is the Department Chair of Theology, Director of Student Activities, and moderator of Sports & Spirit.

“I look at De Smet and I think there are a lot of good teachers, some who are probably just as deserving of the award as I am,” Mr. Hall said. “Teaching is all about putting the kids first, and working to build connections with students as a teacher. I think what I try to do is just be very clear and supportive, but at the same time very challenging.”