Navy presents teacher with Impact Influencer Award
Left to right: senior Carly Williams, teacher Dana Hipps, Commanding Officer Todd Winn.
Williams, who is joining the Navy after graduation, is in the delayed entry program, which allowed her to nominate a teacher for this award.
Hipps, who has been a teacher in Hatboro-Horsham School District for 15 years, was presented with the award for the leadership, mentorship and guidance she has provided Williams. Recruiter Dan Yesenofski and Commanding Officer Todd Winn surprised Hipps with the award on March 25, 2022. Hipps’ eyes welled up and she was elated to receive this recognition. “I felt immediately touched and honored that out of everyone she could have chosen throughout her education, she chose me,” said Hipps. “It feels amazing to truly make a difference in students’ lives.”
During Williams’ four years at Hatboro-Horsham High School, she has taken five classes with Hipps. In all her classes, Williams said Hipps guides her students to success and exemplifies qualities of a leader. “I would like to say how much she has impacted not only my life, but many of her students,” said Williams. “She encourages students to put their best efforts forward. She is open-minded, listens to her students and is accepting of everyone.”
Hipps has taught 12 different classes at Hatboro-Horsham High School from jewelry and computer graphics to 3D animation, painting and comic book art. “The different programs her classes use are large and complex, but she enjoys exploring them and learning new skills,” said Williams. “Overall, Mrs. Hipps inspires me because she keeps building her knowledge and is the most genuinely kind person I’ve met.”
Hipps gets to know her students on a daily basis and builds a foundation of respect through open and honest dialogue. “I want students to feel comfortable in my classroom and have the confidence to take on any challenge,” said Hipps. “I have great rapport with Carly and she knows she can talk to me about anything.”