Carmel High School’s Keith Turner Honored with National Award for Excellence in Astronomy Education

Carmel, Ind. – Carmel Clay Schools proudly celebrates William Keith Turner, Carmel High School teacher and Planetarium Director, for being named the recipient of the 2025 Thomas J. Brennan Award from the Astronomical Society of the Pacific (ASP). This prestigious honor recognizes Turner’s outstanding contributions to the teaching of astronomy at the high school level across North America.

The Brennan Award acknowledges educators who demonstrate exceptional commitment to astronomy education, both in the classroom and through community engagement. Turner was selected for his remarkable ability to spark curiosity about the universe, his innovative use of professional astronomy tools and technology, and his dedication to training and supporting fellow educators.

“Keith Turner has transformed astronomy education at Carmel High School,” said CHS Principal Dr. Tim Phares. “His expertise and passion for astronomy have created unparalleled opportunities for our students and community to experience the wonders of space. We are grateful for the inspiration he provides and the unique educational experiences he has made possible.”

In his role as Carmel High School’s Planetarium Director, Turner has continually advanced programming, upgraded technology, and expanded access to astronomy for all learners. From leading hands-on telescope projects to organizing major community events such as the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse, his leadership has left a lasting impact on both students and families in Carmel.

Turner’s work has earned recognition not only from the ASP, but also from organizations such as NASA and the Lilly Endowment. He was previously named one of Carmel High School’s Most Influential Teachers, underscoring his role as both a mentor and innovator within the school community.

Turner will be formally recognized at the ASP Awards Gala on Saturday, November 8 in California. 

About the Astronomical Society of the Pacific

Founded in 1889, the Astronomical Society of the Pacific (ASP) is one of the nation’s most respected nonprofit organizations dedicated to advancing astronomy research and education. The ASP recognizes individual achievements in astronomy research, technology, education, and public outreach each year. Past recipients have included luminaries such as Edwin Hubble, Vera Rubin, Isaac Asimov, Margaret Burbidge, Carl Sagan, and most recently, Katherine Johnson.

Congratulations to the recipients of the 2025 ASP Awards

• Catherine Bruce Gold Medal - Gary Ferland I Professor of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Kentucky in Lexington
• Robert J. Trumpler - Justin Myles I Brinson Fellow at Princeton University; PhD, Stanford University  
• Klumpke-Roberts - Kimberly Arcand I Communications and Public Engagement Lead for the Chandra X-ray Center
• Nancy Grace Roman - Laura Lopez I Professor of Astronomy at The Ohio State University
• Thomas J. Brennan - William Keith Turner I Science Teacher and Planetarium Director, Carmel High School, Carmel, Indiana