BHS Science Teacher Receives Nichols Foundation Award

The award, presented annually to an outstanding high school chemistry teacher in the American Chemical Society (ACS), New York Section, recognizes highly effective teaching and inspirational leadership to students in chemistry. Ms. Conti (pictured right) was selected because of a combination of high quality teaching, an ability to challenge and inspire students, extracurricular work in chemistry (including science fairs, science clubs, and other activities that stimulate the interest of young people in chemistry and related science, and a willingness to keep up-to-date in the field of chemistry (as evidenced by publications, enrollment in courses and summer institutes, attendance at scientific meetings)

BHS Principal Debora French (pictured left), who nominated Ms. Conti, said, “Ms. Conti represents the qualities that have contributed to Briarcliff’s educational standards of excellence. Her high aspirations for all students have enabled her to integrate current science related issues and connections into the curriculum to engage, inspire and challenge students’ intellectual curiosity in science. She had a successful career as a chemical engineer with Union Carbide and was a senior consultant at Nexant from 1995 to 2007. Her professional experience has enabled her to bring excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills, along with her exceptional expertise in science to Briarcliff where she provides a nurturing and educationally rich environment for all Briarcliff students. Ms. Conti is extremely dedicated to her students and she devotes countless hours providing additional support for her students to be successful. She offers an “enrichment” program for Regents Chemistry students who love the subject and are interested in studying AP Chemistry or the SAT II in Chemistry. In addition, she has served on the Professional Development Committee for 5 years and assists in maintaining the Flinn Chemical Database and chemical stockroom.”

In response to being selected Ms. Conti said, “It's a wonderful recognition and I am honored to represent our school.”