Dr. Lauer Receives 2021-22 McMillin Teaching Award

Dr. Mark Lauer, who teaches core humanities classes and electives, is the 2021-22 recipient of the Laurence McMillin Excellence in Teaching Award.

The McMillin Award was established by David Loo ’79 to honor the beloved Webb humanities teacher who passed away in 2005. The award provides faculty members in their first three to five years of teaching with resources to cultivate their skills and to strengthen their affiliation with The Webb Schools.

Dean of Faculty Michael Szanyi announced the honor during Webb’s 2021-22 Commencement Exercises on June 4.

“Mark Lauer’s advice, recommendations and solid sense of purpose permeates what he does both inside and outside of the classroom – whether that’s helping his students navigate the big questions in Advanced Studies: The Age of Enlightenment or unpack the nuance in our cultural history in the 10^th-grade The American Idea course,” Szanyi said.

“Dr. Lauer creates spaces that are inclusive, supportive of diverse voices, and asks students to find meaning, grounding, and perspective,” Szanyi said. “This year, Dr. Lauer has also championed the Breakfast Literary Magazine in our afternoon activities program, publishing literature and art that allows students to explore their imaginations, passions, and talents. Mark is genuinely enthusiastic, from his hearty hellos in the humanities office to his generous approach in the classroom.”

In 2022-23, Lauer will also serve as lead class advisor for the senior class.