Honoring Our Teachers

Our 2024 Alumni Day of Giving honored the Branson teachers, past and present, who made a positive impact on our lives. Here are some of the many memories shared by our alumni of the Branson teachers who encouraged us to be our best selves: 

2020s

“Thank you to all of my teachers who helped me to find my career in STEM - I am incredibly grateful to Mr. Z (Peter Zdrojewski), who was always there for me, from office hours to after graduation!” -2020 Alum

“In honor of Gretchen Koles I will always hold you so close to my heart. I felt so blessed to be your student not once, not twice, but for three years at Branson. You are absolutely brilliant and your heart is so big. Thank you for always making yourself available.” -2019 Alum

“In honor of Atticus, who remains the most kind hearted, patient and brilliant teacher I have ever had. Thank you for bringing a dead language to life and teaching us the joy and importance of learning for the sake of learning.” -2019 Alum

“Thank you Carl Ma & family for the thoughtful career advice.” -2015 Alum

2010s 

“Forever holding a candle to Brit Lit and the only reason that I still watch slow period dramas and read books about royal families that lived 200 years ago. Thank you, Susan Clark.” - '02 Alum

“My experience at Branson would be nothing without its teachers, but Ms. Bockelman is one teacher I will always remember. At a time where I struggled in most of my classes and felt defeated, photography felt like one of my outlets where I could see immediate outcomes as I grew and learned. Sure, there were several rolls of ruined film and salvaged prints along the way, but I can still hear her saying ,"I guess you could turn it in... but you wouldn't get a very good grade," as I ran up and down the stairs of New House until it was perfect. I remember surprising her with the results of a copper plate print and she gasped in surprise. I always hoped she knew what an inspiration she was for me to keep going and always push for better.  - ‘09 Alum

2000s 

“Susan Clark, an amazing teacher, friend, and mentor.” - ‘02 Alum

“Thank you to Maura and Mr. Parsons who I adore.” -'09 Alum

1990s

“Thank you for your care and encouragement, Mr. Duncan!” - ‘96 Alum

1980s

“With gratitude, I remember Brenda Brown who always greeted me with the warmest smile, and exemplified kindness. Natalie Cramer who gave me confidence in my writing and my voice. John Hall who taught me compassion when he gave me money to buy medicine when I was sick. Damon Kerby who taught me what grace, courage and resiliency looked like as he recovered from his car accident. Ted Walch who identified my organizational talents and let me run props for drama productions. -’87 Alum

“Thank you to Mr. Gould for instilling my love of Math.” -'87 Alum

“I chose to give in honor of biology teacher Marty Tallant who had an impact on me choosing to become a doctor. I have lots of memories creating an insect collection, doing the frog dissection and taking field trips near Phoenix Lake. Susan Clark was another teacher who made a lasting impact on me learning how to have an editor’s eye and modeling how to provide direct but supportive feedback.” -’85 Alum 

“In honor of Jack Marrinan for making math and soccer fun.” -'85 Alum

“In honor of Rebecca Upham! Go Chemistry!” -'83 Alum

1970s

“Mr. Hall, your kind words of praise still elevate and encourage.” -'79 Alum

1950s

"In honor of Miss Heidemann, my Latin teacher." -'59 Alum

“Betty Goerke, best teacher ever. She was determined to teach her love of the subject, whatever it was.” - '56 Alum