In recognition of his tireless efforts to promote environmental sustainability, Middle School Science teacher Howdy Knipp was named the inaugural recipient of the Catherine L. McAuliffe Environmental Leadership Award during St. Paul’s observance of Earth Day.

“Howdy Knipp is a leader in advancing environmental awareness at St. Paul’s, both in the classroom and beyond,” said Headmaster Thomas J. Reid in presenting the award. “And his impact is not limited to campus, but extends to leadership roles in environmental organizations throughout our region.”

The McAuliffe Award recognizes outstanding contributions by a St. Paul’s student, teacher, staff member or group that promotes a more environmentally sustainable campus and planet. When Mrs. McAuliffe retired last year, the Award was established to recognize the leadership she demonstrated during her 26 years at the School in advancing a campus-wide commitment to a greener, more environmentally sustainable St. Paul’s.

Mr. Knipp has taught and coached at St. Paul’s since 1995. In addition to dedicating a significant portion of his classroom curriculum to studying the Chesapeake Bay, he has been a champion of the Middle School’s recycling efforts and serves as the lead faculty member on service-learning projects with the Blue Water Alliance. For his work in the community, Knipp received a 2009 Appreciation Award from the Jones Falls Watershed Association for “Engaging Youth in Watershed-Wide Restoration Activities.”  He currently serves as head of the Recreation Committee of the Robert E. Lee Nature Council.

In recognition of Knipp’s contributions, a grant will be made in his honor to an environmental charity of his choice. Also, a grant will be made to a campus environmental project. The McAuliffe Award and grants are supported by current and former Trustees who have pledged more than $250,000 to the St. Paul’s Environmental Stewardship Fund.