Gerianne Friedline (at right), pictured here with Emerson Executive Vice President Pat Sly, is not only an alumna but also an associate teaching professor in UMSL’s Pierre Laclede Honors College. Friedline was just one of the evening’s many honorees. (Photo courtesy of Emerson)

Each fall, global technology and engineering giant Emerson hosts an awards gala to honor excellent teachers. More than 100 dedicated individuals – from kindergarten teachers to college professors – are recognized for the many ways they make the entire St. Louis region stronger through their classroom and community efforts.

This year’s ceremony took place on Nov. 13 at the Ritz-Carlton in Clayton, Missouri. Fifteen of the superior educators who were honored are graduates of the University of Missouri–St. Louis.

Each honoree received Emerson’s signature award for the annual festivities – an engraved crystal apple box from Tiffany and Co. They will also be eligible to apply for a Gold Star Grant from Emerson. The grants are an additional, competitive, monetary award that the teachers can use to foster projects meant to enhance technology, innovation and leadership – Emerson’s core brand standards – within their schools and communities.

The UMSL alumni honorees were James Andrzejewski, Dawn Bristow, Gerianne Friedline, Thomas Greene, Teresa Kinealy, Terry Kite, Jaclyn Overbey, Shelly Parks, Joe Schoen, Therese Shain, Christan Shelton, Wendy Stocker, Allison Stout, Staci Thomas and Sasha Walchli.