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6th-8th English/Literature TeacherIllichMSFdSSchool.org
Employed at SFdS Since 1993
Education
- B.A., University of St. Thomas
- M.Ed., University of St. Thomas
Other Credentials
- Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston Catechist Certificate
- Sally Landram Excellence in Education Award
- Principal’s Award
- Who’s Who Among Educators
- Award Winning Author
Maria Illich holds a B.A. in English Literature and an M.Ed. from the University of St. Thomas. While there, she was the first recipient of the Susan T. Scanlon Scholarship in Creative Writing. She was also the Distinguished Graduate in English Literature.
Originally from Ohio, Maria has called Houston home since 1979. She is married to Greg Illich. Greg teaches tai chi, volunteers with the Texas State Guard, and visits sick children dressed as Captain America. Together, they have a daughter, Katherine, who attended SFdS, HSPVA, and RMCAD. Katherine is a graphic designer and illustrator.
Maria Illich is also an author. Her YA novel, The Morcant Twins and the Curse of the Griseum , was nominated for a CYBILS Award as well as a Silver Falchion Award. A sequel is forthcoming. Her children’s book, The Legend of the Ladybug , won a 2020 Press Women of Texas Communications Award as well as a 2020 National Press Women Communications Award. She has been a juried poet multiple times for the Houston Poetry Fest. Her story, “Dark Phoenix,” recently won an Editor’s Award and was included in the anthology Purifying Wind .