Chemistry teacher Thomas Sangiorgi has won a 2013 Sloan Award for Excellence in Teaching Science.

Mr. Sangiorgi discovered that he had won the award on October 30 and will attend an honorary ceremony at Cooper Union on December 4.  Assistant Principal of Math, Science, and Technology Susan Brustein nominated him for the Sloan award two years ago, without  success.

Mr. Sangiorgi was unaware that he had been considered again for this year and was “shocked, speechless and honored” upon learning he won. To be considered, Mr. Sangiorgi, certain students, and colleagues were interviewed.

When choosing recipients, the  amount of time and energy a teacher invested into extracurriculars was also a factor.

Mr. Sangiorgi works with the Science Olympiad team. However, his influence extends beyond THHS through his role as the regional Science Olympiad coordinator of NYC.

“He inspires students and colleagues with his passion for science and willingness to go the extra mile with his students and Science Olympiad,” said Ms. Brustein. “His magic touch has engaged students throughout NYC.”

Each year since 2010, the Sloan Foundation awards seven teachers with $5,000. Each teacher’s department also receives $2,500 from the foundation.

Despite receiving this honor, Mr. Sangiorgi said that students will always be his priority.

“I’m not used to getting the attention,” he said. “The focus is always on the students and it needs to continue to be that way.”