It is always an honor to be associated with an institution with as much prominence and prestige as Yale University. As some at Enloe may remember, two of our eagle alum from the 2019 class— Iman Dancy and Hamilton Moore— took flight at the university this fall. Dancy has already begun making waves, nominating one of our very own for an award.  “Mr. Chen views himself not only as a teacher of the Chinese language, but also as a teacher of the arts of diligence, generosity, gratitude, discipline, and overall decency,” she remarks as she reflects back on her time as a student of the award recipient.

Mr. Chen is one of those exemplary humans who carry themselves with such humble poise that their many efforts often fly under the radar. In a profession where generosity is all but necessary, Mr. Chen has exhibited this trait from years of teaching language and culture, edifying and instilling values that will last a lifetime beyond the classroom. “I teach them Chinese philosophy, like respecting teachers, so they are not only great students but great people”. It is Mr. Chen’s acts of generosity, such as hosting the annual faculty Chinese luncheon with the help of his students, that make him a befitting recipient of this award. He uses the luncheon as an opportunity to enhance his students’ learning, putting the values and aspects of the culture he incorporates in his classroom into action. ”I want my students to learn through student-centered, active learning rather than passive learning”.

According to Mark Dunn, Associate Director of Admission, this commendable award is presented to educators that the committee feels “inspire and support their students to perform at high levels and to achieve excellence”. Thousands of nominees worldwide were reviewed by a committee at the Office of Undergraduate Admission at Yale University. Ultimately, the committee saw the tremendous value that Mr. Chen’s efforts bring to the language department and to all of his students here at Enloe. In recognition of his achievements, Mr. Chen was awarded the 2019 Yale Educator Award. His accomplishments as an educator are not only shown through this award but through the incredible lives that his students lead long after they have graduated Enloe.