The South Colonie Central School District announced today that Colonie Central High School Chemistry Teacher Natalie Stagnitti has been honored with the 2024 Nicholas Romano Chemistry Award by the Science Teachers Association of New York State (STANYS). This prestigious award, bestowed by the oldest science education organization in the United States, recognizes exceptional achievements and contributions in the field of chemistry education.

Stagnitti will be celebrated at the STANYS 129th Conference, taking place in early November in Syracuse. At this event, she will receive a plaque in recognition of her outstanding achievements and a one-year membership to STANYS, further supporting her dedication to science education.

"Receiving the Nicholas Romano Chemistry Award is a significant milestone for Natalie and truly reflects her dedication and passion for the subject," said William Behrle, Principal of Colonie Central High School. "Her hard work and enthusiasm have earned her this accolade and serve as a shining example for both her peers and educators at Colonie."

Stagnitti is beginning her second year teaching at Colonie. 

“I am thrilled and honored to be a recipient of the Nicholas Romano Chemistry Award and be able to represent Colonie at the STANYS conference,” said Stagnitti. “I look forward to learning from other science educators and bringing back new ideas to share with my students and colleagues.”

The South Colonie Central School District community is immensely proud of Natalie’s accomplishments and looks forward to celebrating her success with other chemistry educators from across New York State this November