Health & Medical Sciences teacher Heather Mariotti, MS, PT, DPT, MEd, is LCTI’s inaugural Educator of the Year.

SCHNECKSVILLE, Pa. — Health & Medical Sciences teacher Heather Mariotti is Lehigh Career & Technical Institute’s inaugural Educator of the Year.

The prestigious new award celebrates LCTI instructors who’ve demonstrated teaching excellence, deployed innovative educational practices, expanded student learning, contributed to the school community, engaged in professional development, and established connections that enhance work-based education opportunities for students.

Executive Director Lisa Greenawalt said Mariotti — one of seven nominees put forward by school administrators — earned the most votes in each evaluation category, making her a clear choice for the honor.

James G. Hansel, a longtime LCTI advocate and student benefactor, presented the award to Mariotti on Wednesday (Dec. 11, 2024) at the school’s monthly Joint Operating Committee meeting. Afterward, Mariotti joked that she’d demanded a recount upon learning of her status as the award’s top vote-getter.

“I’m so humbled to receive this award from Dr. Hansel and his lovely wife,” Mariotti said. “Thank you very much. Everybody that voted for me — I don’t know why — but thank you.”

Greenawalt said Mariotti’s humility hasn’t stopped her from stacking up high-profile accomplishments at LCTI. For example, she, along with fellow teachers Michaelina Greenawalt and Jonell Kiechel, reimagined and then transformed the Health & Medical Sciences program. Mariotti’s work broadened the program’s appeal to and outcomes for students, Greenawalt said. 

Doc Mariotti, as students call her, joined LCTI’s staff in 2018 after nearly a decade spent working as a physical therapist in a variety of clinical settings. Originally from New York, she now resides in the Quakertown area with her husband and their two boys. Mariotti is an avid Philadelphia Eagles fan and enjoys staying active; she recently hiked the Grand Canyon with her brother. 

Congratulations, Doc Mariotti! We’re thankful for all you do at LCTI!