(ABC 6 News) – Austin Public High School teacher Emily Hovland was named this year’s Outstanding Educator of SE Minnesota for her achievement promoting student entrepreneurship developments, such as creating and growing their own businesses.

“I am incredibly fortunate to work with the students at Austin High School, and seeing them grow and reach new goals is one of the best parts of my job. STEM education allows students to explore areas of interest and develop skills that will support them in their future endeavors,” Hovland said in response to the award.

Awarded by STEM Forward, a non-profit aimed at promoting STEM education and careers for students, received nine total nominations across southeast Minnesota.

Those other nominations include:

• Chris Gogolewski, Austin Public Schools
• Josephine Winter, Austin Public Schools
• Holly Vos, Byron Public Schools
• Amy Dombeck, Cannon Falls Public Schools
• Bonnie Thoe-Austin, Cannon Falls Public Schools
• Jayme Miller, Cannon Falls Public Schools
• Jennifer Good, Rochester Catholic Schools
• Lidia Wallerich, Zumbrota MazeppaPublic Schools

The award is presented in association with IBM, Mayo Clinic, The Hormel Institute and Workforce Development Inc.

The Outstanding Educator Awards will be celebrated at the 32nd Annual STEM Forward Gathering on Feb. 21 in Rochester.

Congratulations Emily Hovland!