UVA School of Education and Human Development Celebrates 108 New Teachers at Annual Pinning Ceremony

On Tuesday, April 29, the UVA School of Education and Human Development welcomed 108 graduating students into the teaching profession during its annual Teacher Education Pinning Ceremony.

Now in its third year, the event honors and celebrates teacher education graduates as they complete their academic programs and prepare to lead their own classrooms.

One by one, each graduate received a commemorative pin from a faculty member — symbolizing their transition from student to teacher. The pin, which may be worn with graduation regalia, also serves as a keepsake and reminder of the journey each student has taken to become an educator.

Dean Stephanie Rowley addressed the graduates with heartfelt congratulations, encouraging them to remain curious and connected to the UVA community as they begin their careers.

“Teaching today isn’t easy,” she said, “but you have the knowledge. You have the hands-on training. And most importantly, you have heart. And that is exactly what the profession, and your students, need.”

Ben Allen, executive director of the UVA Center for Community Partnerships — who holds four degrees from the University of Virginia, including three from the Education School — delivered the keynote address.

Drawing on his personal experience as a high school teacher and administrator, Allen shared three pieces of advice with the new educators: be present, remember that you are not a superhero, and always know your students.  

Alumni Hall was filled with graduates, their families, faculty, staff, and mentor teachers. Many others joined the celebration via live stream. After the ceremony, guests gathered for refreshments and posed for photos with family members and favorite professors.

The event concluded with a recorded message from UVA President Jim Ryan, who praised the graduates and emphasized the impact of their chosen profession.

"Great teachers can literally change the world,” he said. “Each of you has my deepest admiration.”

Following the event, Savannah Simmons — who will be teaching first grade in Fairfax County Public Schools in the fall — expressed her gratitude on social media, thanking her instructors, mentor teachers, classmates, family, and others who have supported her. “It has been an incredible journey with the UVA School of Education and Human Development,” she wrote. “The education school will forever hold a special place in my heart.”