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Smithtown Central School District
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Magnificent Maria!

January 31, 2025

High School East science research coordinator, Maria Zeitlin, has received the Nichols Foundation Chemistry Teacher Award from the NY Section of the American Chemical Society! This award recognizes an outstanding high school chemistry teacher who demonstrates teaching excellence, student inspiration, and extracurricular leadership.

"It is a tremendous honor to receive this award from the American Chemical Society and to be in the company of dedicated scientists, educators, and advocates," Zeitlin exclaimed. "This award has even more meaning to me because my nomination originated with Dr. Stephanie O'Brien, a fellow ACS Nichols Award winner, and someone for whom I have immense respect. I was blessed to have my children in attendance at this beautiful site for this wonderful occasion."

Ms. Zeitlin received a plaque at a ceremony at the University of Mt. Saint Vincent in the Bronx.

"I can not think of someone more deserving," Dr. O'Brien told us. "Having witnessed the extraordinary time and dedication she invests in her students and the research program, we are truly fortunate to have her here in Smithtown."

Congratulations!

Stephanie O'Brien and Maria Zeitlin