GAINESVILLE, FL (352Today) – Gainesville High School (GHS) assistant principal Dr. Mallory Becker has been named a recipient of the 2025 Yale Educator Award.
According to a letter to Becker from Yale University, the award “recognizes teachers and counselors from around the world who inspire and support their students to perform at high levels and to achieve excellence.”
Becker was nominated for the award by former GHS student and current Yale freshman Yoo-Min Koh. A committee of Yale admissions officers reviewed hundreds of nominations and selected the recipients of this year’s awards.
“I spent a lot of time drafting my nomination and wanted it to capture just how much she has done for me,” said Koh. “I am truly grateful that I was able to give back, in some small way, to someone who has given me so much support.”
“When I received the notification, I was genuinely touched,” said Becker. “It felt good that I had made a difference for this student, and I know he’s going to go far, whatever he chooses to do.”
Koh, who will be majoring in Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry at Yale and plans to pursue a career in medicine or research, says Becker supported in many ways during his time at GHS. That support included pushing him to take more advanced classes, helping him earn both local and national scholarships and supporting his tutoring outreach program.
“Dr. Becker has been behind the scenes of almost everything I’ve accomplished in high school,” said Koh. “What she did made a huge difference in what I was able to achieve. I honestly don’t know where I’d be without her help.”
Becker says the award drives home the fact that any interactions educators have with students can have a significant impact.
“Every interaction counts, so make it as positive as you can, really listen and make sure the student feels heard and feels that you care about them,” said Becker.