SBU Alumnus Prince Johnson Named 2026 New York State Teacher of the Year

When Prince Johnson '98, MA '03 arrived at the State University of New York at Stony Brook as a freshman, he was a biology and pre-med major. However, ahead of his junior year, Johnson's best friend and roommate encouraged him to follow his calling to become a history teacher.

Almost three decades later, Johnson, a social studies teacher at Food and Finance High School in New York City, has been named the 2026 New York State Teacher of the Year by the New York State Board of Regents, a role he doesn't take lightly.

"I feel really privileged to hold this distinction," said Johnson. "I'm humbled to be able to serve as an ambassador and voice for all of the exceptional teachers we have in New York."

Johnson was also named the 2025 New York State History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History. But, Johnson will be the first to tell you, he's not in it for the awards. "I genuinely care about my students and value the personal connections I've built with each of them," said Johnson. "It's incredibly rewarding to hear about the amazing things my former students are doing now. Knowing I played even a small part in their success - that's what makes teaching so meaningful."

Read the full story by Christine McGrath at SB Matters.