About the Northwestern Schapiro Award
In the fall, graduating Northwestern seniors are invited to nominate high school teachers who have had a transforming impact on the lives of students.
A selection committee composed of Northwestern faculty, staff, and students reviews the nominations and requests teaching portfolios from nominated teachers for finalist consideration.
A small group of finalists is interviewed, and the committee typically recommends several outstanding teachers to the Northwestern University President.
Winners of the award are invited to participate in Commencement exercises in June. Each teacher honored receives an award of $5,000. The winning teacher's high school also receives an award of $5,000.
We are currently accepting nominations for the 2026 Northwestern Schapiro Award. The teacher nomination deadline is December 16, 2025.
If you have any questions about the award, please e-mail us.
Reflections from Former Winners
Each year, Northwestern University recognizes outstanding high school teachers with the Northwestern Schapiro Award at its June Commencement exercises.
2022: Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the Northwestern Schapiro Award Program
2020: Students' Tribute to Northwestern Schapiro Award Winners
2019: Students' Tribute to Northwestern Schapiro Award Winners
2018: Students' Tribute to Northwestern Schapiro Award Winners
2017: Students' Tribute to Northwestern Schapiro Award Winners