During a virtual announcement Wednesday, the Vicksburg-Warren County Chamber of Commerce announced the recipients of its 32nd Annual Educators of the Year Awards.

The winners in the elementary and secondary categories each received $1,000 from Ameristar Casino. The runners-up in each category received $500 from Mutual Credit Union.

The winner in the elementary category was Bowmar Elementary School school counselor Pam Parman, with St. Francis kindergarten teacher Amy Jackson being named runner-up.

“I’m shocked. That was an awesome group of people. I can’t wrap my mind around it,” Parman said.

In the secondary teacher of the year category, St. Aloysius’ Maggie Nasif was named the winner. Nasif teaches history, government and economics at Vicksburg Catholic School. Runner-up in this category was Warren Central High School’s Corey Wilson.

“Did they really just call my name,” Nasif said after hearing her name called as the secondary teacher winner. “I cannot believe it. I work with so many teachers who deserve this honor. I am the one learning from them every day.”

Nasif said she does not know yet how she will spend the prize money, but was reflective of the help and guidance she has received in her career at St. Aloysius.

“I started my teaching career at St. Aloysius seven years ago and have learned so much during this time period,” she said. “My students are amazing and my fellow teachers are some of my very best friends. I feel so lucky to have found my place in life.”