Smithtown Eduactor Earns Chemistry Teacher Award: 'Tremendous Honor'

SMITHTOWN, NY — Maria Zeitlin, a Smithtown High School East science research coordinator, has received the Nichols Foundation Chemistry Teacher Award from the New York Section of the American Chemical Society, the Smithtown School District announced.

This award recognizes an outstanding high school chemistry teacher who demonstrates teaching excellence, student inspiration and extracurricular leadership.

"It is a tremendous honor to receive this award from the American Chemical Society and to be in the company of dedicated scientists, educators and advocates," Zeitlin said in a news release. "This award has even more meaning to me because my nomination originated with Dr. Stephanie O'Brien, a fellow ACS Nichols Award winner, and someone for whom I have immense respect. I was blessed to have my children in attendance at this beautiful site for this wonderful occasion."

Zeitlin received a plaque and $2,000 at a ceremony at the University of Mount Saint Vincent in the Bronx.

"I cannot think of someone more deserving," O'Brien said. "Having witnessed the extraordinary time and dedication she invests in her students and the research program, we are truly fortunate to have her here in Smithtown."