The 2025 William T. Dwyer Awards for Excellence in Education, presented by the Hanley Foundation, celebrated the exceptional educators of Palm Beach County at a ceremony on Monday, May 5, at Dreyfoos Hall at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach.
Hosted by the Economic Council of Palm Beach County Foundation, the event honored the 2025 finalists and announced honorees in seven categories, each of whom exemplifies outstanding dedication and commitment to student success.
The 2025 Dwyer Awards for Excellence in Education honorees are: Early Education: Amy Winsor, Dwight D. Eisenhower K-8; Elementary Education: Ashli Fischer, Beacon Cove Intermediate School; Middle School Education: Maxwell Slakoff, John F. Kennedy Middle School; Senior High School Education: Lisa Gilbert, Park Vista High School; Student Advancement & Support: Tiffany Wilkes, William T. Dwyer High School; STEM Education: Rob Sweeten, Boca Raton High School; and Exceptional Student Education: Jacqueline Hagan, Lake Worth High School.
The evening began with an electric performance by the Palm Beach Lakes High School Ram Regiment Band, under the direction of Josh Velez. The band played “Stars and Stripes Forever” and more, setting the stage for the unveiling of the honorees. The Ram Regiment Band has been selected to perform in London’s 40th annual New Year’s Day Parade in 2026. The band is currently raising funds for their trip, and at the event, the Economic Council kicked off fundraising efforts with a $2,500 donation.
Opening remarks were made by Mark Elhilow, chair of the Economic Council of Palm Beach County, and School Superintendent Michael Burke. Also speaking were Deana Pizzo and Mike Bauer, co-chairs of the Dwyer Awards; Michele Jacobs, president and CEO of the Economic Council; and Lindsey White, chief advancement officer at the Hanley Foundation. Felicia Rodriguez, anchor at WPBF 25 News, served as mistress of ceremonies.
“Tonight, we celebrate the incredible work of these outstanding educators, who make a significant difference in the lives of their students every day,” Jacobs said. “Their passion, dedication and leadership are shaping the future of our community, and we are proud to honor them.”
The Dwyer Awards, named in honor of the late community leader William T. Dwyer, is an annual program developed in 1984 by the Economic Council to recognize outstanding educators in both public and private schools across the county. Nearly 450 nominations were submitted for the 2025 awards, and each nominee underwent a rigorous evaluation process by prominent business leaders from the area. This thorough process led to the selection of 28 finalists across seven categories, ultimately honoring seven individuals — one from each category.
The program seeks to increase awareness of exemplary teaching while promoting high standards of excellence in education. Each honoree receives $3,500 and a personalized crystal award, while finalists are awarded $500 and a personalized certificate.
