Middle School Bible teacher Emily Harrington has been named one of the Herzog Foundation’s 2025 Christian Teachers of the Year, an honor awarded to only 12 teachers nationwide each year.
The Herzog Foundation is a national organization committed to advancing Christ-centered education.
The Foundation’s mission aligns closely with Mount Pisgah’s core values and this year’s verse of the year, Colossians 2:6-7: “Rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught.”
Over the course of four years, the Herzog Foundation has recognized only 48 teachers in total. Harrington’s selection places her among a small and distinguished group of Christian educators.
“Mrs. Harrington is one of those great examples of a dedicated and passionate Christian education teacher who loves her students,” said Student Life Director Nathanial Hilliard. “She is deeply invested in both the content she teaches and the lives of her students.”
For Harrington, the award represents more than personal recognition. It’s a chance to honor the people, community and faith that have shaped her journey.
“It’s such an honor to represent the Lord, my family, my students and Mount Pisgah,” said Harrington. “When I received the nomination email, I didn’t realize the significance at first. Once I learned more about the Herzog Foundation, I understood what a tremendous blessing this was.”
Harrington described the moment she was surprised with the award announcement during Mount Pisgah’s Spring Convocation ceremony.
“Who knew I’d be asked to come on stage to view an announcement video with my family in front of my former and current students, colleagues and friends? It was an incredible moment,” said Harrington. “I wish I could have stopped time to take it all in. I felt so blessed to see all the grinning faces, those whose lives I’ve poured into and who have sharpened my faith in return. It was humbling and overwhelming, and I couldn’t be more honored.”
Harrington credits the community around her with supporting and shaping her as a teacher and follower of Christ.
“My colleagues in the Bible Department constantly strengthen my faith, whether it’s through deep theological discussions, encouraging words, or nerdy Bible memes,” she said. “Dr. Harmon’s leadership and support were instrumental in my nomination. My fellow middle school faculty lift me up daily, whether it’s a quick prayer between classes or a kind message. And my students are my biggest inspiration, their hunger for God’s Word and their honesty in asking for prayer remind me what really matters.”
More than anything, Harrington is grateful for the chance to celebrate the joy of teaching and the mission that drives her.
“This award is the result of the refining that comes from being surrounded by others, adults and children alike, who are chasing Christ,” Harrington said.
