Award Honorees

Ernie Gulner led a distinguished teaching career marked by a deep commitment to excellence. His genuine passion for literature and exceptional ability to connect with students have allowed him to make a lasting impact at Minnetonka High School.

Gulner grew up in a household where educational resources were limited, and reading was not encouraged. His love for literature began when a friend gifted him a book. Although he initially struggled with his college coursework, his determination and evolving perspective on education ultimately enabled him to excel.

“I came to realize the power and value of education, as well as becoming aware of how much I did not know,” Gulner said. “I promised myself to become a lifelong learner, a promise I am proud to say I continue to this day.”

Gulner credits his passion for literature to his lifelong friend and wife, Martha Gulner, who introduced him to the world of books. “Through Martha’s love of literature, which she was kind enough to share, I learned that my fears and emotions are not unique,” he said. “I found it reassuring. I discovered that even when I thought I knew something, there was always more to learn.”

Gulner often drew lessons from his own experience growing up in a lower socioeconomic environment. He encouraged his students to prepare for life’s challenges and persist in pursuing their goals. He also made it a point to treat his students with respect and speak to them as peers.

“My students taught me more than I could ever have possibly taught them,” he said. “They taught me patience, openness to new ideas, and the ongoing challenge of staying relevant and making my lessons meaningful to their lives. Most importantly, they reinforced my belief that academics are important, but so is the ability to think practically and live life in real-time, rather than observing it from an ivory tower. I continue to find how much each student has to offer—how each student is unique, a very special part of the universe, and, if given the chance, how much potential each student has. This observation allows me to see the many gifts that are at one's fingertips if only one takes the time to notice.”

Gulner shared a quote from Shakespeare’s Hamlet to summarize his advice to current MHS students: “This above all: to thine own self be true, and it must follow, as the night the day, Thou canst not then be false to any man.”