Reaching out to teachers after acknowledging them in thesis. Good idea?
I am writing my PhD thesis and I would like to thank a lot of people who I felt have shaped my journey in some way. This includes past teachers whom I fondly remember, but it's been well over a decade since I have had them as teachers. I am wondering whether it would be weird to reach out to them to say that I am acknowledging them in my thesis? I did not major in the area that they taught - would this make a difference? I was thinking of writing an email like this:
"Dear Mr./Ms. [Name],
I hope this email finds you well.
My name is [X] and you were my [Subject] teacher in [Year]. I am writing to you to let you know that I have completed my doctoral dissertation in [topic], and I am reflecting on my academic journey as a whole, including those who helped shape my career trajectory. I would like to acknowledge you in my dissertation as I believe you have had a large impact on my learning up to this point. I still remember your classes fondly, so thank you for being an awesome teacher!
Sincerely
[X]"
I am wondering whether you have had past students reach out to you in a similar manner, and what you make of it. I am just worried that this will come across as a bit weird in general, especially if they don't remember me. I have been told that this will be appreciated, but I am a bit anxious in general and my mind tends to always come up with negative thoughts. Any suggestions on what I should mention in an email if I were to write one? Thanks!