Upper School Teacher and Roberts House Head Allison Rader was named The Claire and Jeffrey Black Family Endowed Chair for the Teaching of Mathematics during the end-of-year faculty breakfast. The Claire and Jeffrey Black Family Endowed Chair for the Teaching of Mathematics is awarded every three years to a current full-time member of the Middle or Upper School Mathematics Department with three years of teaching experience at the Academy. The selection is based on outstanding teaching ability in mathematics, as well as the overall contributions of the faculty member to the Academy. Middle School math teacher and 6th Grade Head Advisor Suzanne Zurcher presented Rader with the award:

"It is truly a privilege to stand before you today to present an award that represents the very best of our academic community, the Claire and Jeffery Black Family Endowed Chair for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics which is awarded every three years to a current full-time member of the Middle or Upper School mathematics department with at least three years of teaching experience at the Academy. 

This award is not just about the teaching of mathematics; it’s about the dedication, passion, and care that goes into inspiring and shaping the future of our students. It recognizes someone who not only excels in teaching mathematics but also embodies the spirit of leadership, mentorship, and support that makes our school such a special place.

The recipient of this award is someone who has made an indelible impact on the classroom and beyond. She makes mathematics come alive for her students. As one colleague stated, she is an “exceptional teacher of mathematics,” and in every lesson, she crafts opportunities that make students excited about learning, even when the material might seem challenging at first. There is a positive energy in her classroom, a spark that is contagious, one that encourages every student to dive deeper, think critically, and embrace the challenges that come with learning.

But it’s not just about the content. Our recipient also knows how to create a classroom environment where students feel supported and empowered. As another colleague shared, she fosters “a positive and supportive learning environment with a clear sense of joy and mutual respect and trust.” She is a  warm demander—holding her students to high expectations while providing the care and support they need to feel seen and capable of achieving those expectations. She builds a space where every student knows they belong and that their effort will be met with both challenge and compassion.

Beyond the classroom, our honoree’s contributions ripple across our entire school community. From her work as a House Head, to her coaching on the pool deck, to her involvement in a variety of committees, she is someone who leads with a commitment to making Germantown Academy a better place than she found it. 

But perhaps what makes this person so worthy is the genuine care and compassion she shows for everyone around her. As one former student shared, “She taught me valuable lessons about perseverance and inner strength, and to this day, she still checks in on me and has helped me through some life changes.” It’s this deep, personal commitment to those she teaches and works with that truly sets her apart.

Today, we are not only celebrating a teacher who has excelled in her field, the classroom and the pool, but a leader, mentor, and friend who has made a lasting impact on our entire community.

It is my great honor to present the Claire and Jeffery Black Family Endowed Chair for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics to Ms. Allison Rader."

Congratulations Ms. Rader!