Presented annually, the Elizabeth Kelley Exemplary Teacher Award honors a faculty member who exemplifies Jesuit values through excellence in teaching, service, leadership, and care for students both inside and outside the classroom.

This year’s selection committee reviewed an exceptional number of nominations, with Etter receiving nearly half of all submissions. Students consistently described her classroom as more than a place to learn — calling it a space where they feel welcomed, supported, and valued.

“Students shared that Mrs. Etter balances teaching with meaningful connection, creating an environment where students feel comfortable asking questions and growing with confidence,” the committee shared during the award presentation.

Etter, who teaches Physics, AP Physics, and Chemistry, was praised for making challenging subjects approachable and engaging while inspiring students to rediscover a love of learning. Students highlighted her compassion, humor, authenticity, and unwavering support for those who may be struggling.

Her influence extends well beyond the classroom through her involvement in Capstone, Marine Chemistry, Investment Club, the Ignatian Global Scholars program, and student retreats. Students noted that her classroom is consistently filled before school, during lunch, and after school because of the welcoming community she has created.

One student described Etter as “the teacher we all dreamed of having as kids,” while another wrote that “she made learning fun again.”

Etter’s dedication to cura personalis — the Jesuit principle of caring for the whole person — has helped foster a culture of kindness, inclusion, curiosity, and compassion across campus.

It is Bellarmine's great privilege to name Jazz Etter as the 2026 Elizabeth Kelley Exemplary Teacher Award recipient.