District 16

Scott Humphrey, Unit 207 Pflugerville, is the 2024 District 16 Teacher of the Year. He was selected from a group of accomplished finalists that included Kathy Carr, Unit 176 Garland, Belle Harris, Unit 209, Midland, and Audley Karrasch, Unit 174, Houston.

Most of us know Scott as a patient and effective tournament director. We now know him as a patient and effective bridge teacher who has touched the lives of hundreds of players over the last 30 years. Scott earned his teaching certification from Audrey Grant in 1994, and soon helped to start the bridge program at Sun City in Georgetown. He taught regularly at the Bridge Center of Austin until 2013 when he retired from his position as an attorney with the State of Texas and became a full-time tournament director. 

• In 2013 Scott began coaching individual students.

• In 2020 Scott took his talents to cyberspace, working online with groups and individuals. 

• In 2023, Scott returned to classroom teaching in Lakeway and continues to teach there and online.

Awards & Recognition [blue]

Scott’s contributions to our bridge community have been recognized in several ways:

• Past recipient of the District 16 Star Award.

• Past recipient of he Oswald & Jacoby Service Award.

• Received the 2015 Jane Johnson Award, given to ACBL employees who exemplify a commitment to customer service.

• Awarded 2024 Teacher of the Year.

Great Scott Way [semibold]

Scott’s commitment to his students and their achievements is exemplified in the messages supporting this Teacher of the Year selection. Barbara Vervenne, now of Tucson, began working with Scott in 2008 and continues to do so even though she has moved out of Texas. She notes, “Scott always meets his students where they are – newcomer or more experienced. His focus is on making us successful while having a good time at it. She says, “Every bit as important as his teaching skills, Scott’s demeanor while teaching is partnership.”

Nominator Sandy Potts, herself a bridge teacher, began lessons with Scott in 2009 and co-taught with him beginning in 2011. She writes: “Scott is one fine person. He wants his people to be successful. This is everywhere he goes. He tries to leave a table with respect and dignity for everyone present.”