2022 Green-Orr Award Winners Announced

General

8/12/2022

Congratulations to Jennifer Patterson and Nello Thomas, the 2022 Green-Orr Award recipients!

Since 2005, one Lower and one or two Middle/Upper School teachers have been recognized for excellence in their field with the Green-Orr Award. The award helps celebrate the achievements of our faculty and honors the memory of Juanita and Charles Green, Sr. and Roberta and Harry Orr, Jr., parents of Peggy and Charlie Green. Presented annually during the opening days for faculty and staff before the first day of school, the 2022 Green-Orr Award was presented to Jennifer Patterson, grade 3 teacher in the Lower School, and Nello Thomas, a Middle and Upper School math teacher and the math department chair.

Mrs. Patterson and Mr. Thomas were selected for the award through a vote by fellow faculty members. Criteria for the award includes showing clear evidence and consistent support and advancement of Westminster's mission; demonstrating significant impact on students through regular contact via teaching, coaching, and/or mentoring; providing a positive Christian role model; and having completed at least five years on the faculty at Westminster.

Jennifer Patterson

Jennifer Patterson just started her sixth year as part of the Westminster Schools lower school faculty. She taught one year in second grade, and the next four in third grade. She has helped lead our ELA program and provides encouragement, kindness and collegiality to everyone. Mrs. Patterson is loved by students, parents and colleagues alike and has a joy for learning and teaching. Her peers had many positive comments to make when asked to offer their thoughts.

"Jennifer takes great care in crafting her lessons and knowing her students. She makes Christ known to her students and co-workers in word and deed. She disciplines in love, prays fervently, and holds each student to a high standard of excellence."

"She is an amazing model of grace and faithfulness in all she does."

"Jennifer has been a guide to outstanding teaching and Christ-like character since she started at Westminster. She loves her students, teaches with diligence, and loves the Lord in a way that inspires her peers."

"She is the most knowledgeable and dedicated teacher I know."

Nello Thomas

Nello Thomas has been at Westminster for five years and has already made a lasting impact on the community. Mr. Thomas is the math department chair and teaches in both the Middle and Upper school division. In addition, he is in charge of the Beta Club, has mentored many teachers, and is a model of excellent teaching. Students have shared that Mr. Thomas makes math fun and helps them understand difficult concepts. He is an expert in the area of curriculum and has worked hard on vertical alignment, helping teachers in all divisions. Teachers describe him in the following ways: makes the complex simple for students, encourages all around him, is committed to excellence in all areas, is a steady force, has great relationships with colleagues and students, gives selflessly, leads the math department with intentionality and discipline, and is a godly example of a loving husband, father, and grandfather.