Webster Elementary School teacher Susanna Benson has been selected for a 2025 Emerson Excellence in Teaching Award.  

Benson, who teaches fourth grade at Webster, is a 30 year veteran of Collinsville Community Unit School District #10 (CUSD 10). She was nominated by the principal of Webster Elementary, Alison Schumacher. 

“With unwavering passion, a heart for her students, and a mind deeply rooted in scientific curiosity, Susanna Benson is the embodiment of what it means to be an outstanding educator,” said Schumacher, “She ignites a love for learning in her classroom daily, turning complex concepts into exciting, hands-on experiences that spark wonder and curiosity.”

Emerson is recognizing more than 100 local educators as the 2025 honorees of the company’s Excellence in Teaching Awards. The long-standing annual program honors instructors throughout the St. Louis metropolitan area who are selected by their school administration for their commendable dedication and profound impact to their students and school community.  

“Educators have a unique opportunity to directly change the lives of their students,” said Akberet Boykin Farr, vice president of human resources – corporate functions at Emerson. “When a teacher goes above and beyond in their role, their students not only learn, but also receive encouragement to explore their passions and become better versions of themselves. Congratulations to all our honorees on this much-deserved recognition.”

Principal Schumacher says what sets Benson apart is not only her deep knowledge of the subject matter, but the way she connects with students, fellow teachers and staff alike. Her classroom is known as a place of trust, respect and enthusiasm, where every student feels seen, heard and empowered. Her colleagues describe her as a dependable team player, a source of inspiration, and someone who lifts the entire school community with her positive energy and collaborative spirit.

“Her teaching  isn't just felt, it's proven.  Year after year, Susie  backs  her  work  with consistent, 

data-driven results that reflect remarkable student growth and achievement. She doesn't shy away from a challenge; in fact, she welcomes them with a solution-focused mindset and a smile that never fades.

“Each morning, she walks through the school doors radiating joy and purpose, ready to give her best to every student, every lesson and every opportunity to grow. Susie is not only a passionate educator, she's a role model, a mentor and a cornerstone of excellence in education,” says Schumacher.

“Mrs. Benson is focused on making a positive impact on her students every single day both academically and socially,”  said CUSD 10 Superintendent Dr. Mark B. Skertich, ”She embraces innovation in her teaching, using new strategies and data-driven methods to enhance learning.  Constantly adapting her approach, Mrs. Benson ensures her students receive the best possible educational experience. 

“Her commitment is reflected in their consistent achievement at or above state proficiency levels and in their growth as confident, capable students.  Mrs. Benson’s genuine care for her students shines through in every interaction and in their ongoing success in the classroom.” 

The Excellence in Teaching Awards program is focused on the St. Louis metropolitan area where Emerson is headquartered. The annual program began in 1989.

A complete list of the 2025 award recipients is posted on the Emerson website here. Emerson is publicly recognizing this year’s honorees in a three-page commemorative advertisement in the November/December print edition of St. Louis Magazine, available on newsstands on November 11.  

About Emerson

Emerson (NYSE: EMR) is a global industrial technology leader that provides advanced automation. With an unmatched portfolio of intelligent devices, controls systems, and industrial software, Emerson delivers solutions that automate and optimize business performance. Headquartered in Saint Louis, Missouri, Emerson combines innovative technology with proven operational excellence to power the future of automation. For more information, visit Emerson.com.