After more than two decades of preparing students for careers in technology and cybersecurity, a Moraine Valley Community College professor has received national recognition for her work inside and outside the classroom.
Dr. Kristine Christensen, professor of Computer Information Systems and the college’s director of Faculty Development, was named the 2026 Educator of the Year by the High Impact Technology Exchange Conference, better known as HI-TEC.
Supported by the National Science Foundation’s Advanced Technological Education program, HI-TEC is a national conference focused on strengthening the nation’s skilled technical workforce. The annual Educator of the Year Award recognizes community college faculty members who have made significant contributions to technology education and workforce training.
Christensen has spent more than 25 years at Moraine Valley teaching computer information systems, developing new learning opportunities for students and expanding professional development for faculty and staff. Her work also has included securing grant funding and creating courses and industry certification opportunities designed to help students enter high-demand technology fields.
In announcing the award, HI-TEC praised Christensen’s impact on both students and educators.
“Her work reflects a clear pursuit of excellence, extending well beyond her own classroom and shaping both the cybersecurity workforce and the future of its teaching,” the organization said.
Christensen said the recognition reflects a broader effort to prepare students for careers in rapidly changing industries.
“This recognition is especially meaningful because it reflects the work of preparing students for the future, building strong pathways into technology careers and supporting the workforce needs of our communities,” she said. “I am extremely grateful to be part of a college that values our work and supports efforts that help students see what is possible in cybersecurity, manufacturing and technology.”
Her latest accomplishment came earlier this year when she secured a nearly $900,000 grant from the National Science Foundation to launch the Cybersecurity Career Awareness and Exploration Initiative. The program is designed to help address the growing demand for cybersecurity professionals by introducing students to career pathways and expanding opportunities in the field.
Christensen also recently received Moraine Valley’s 2026 Impact Award, which honors an employee who demonstrates optimism, innovation and a commitment to advancing the college’s mission.
Moraine Valley President Dr. Pamela J. Haney said Christensen’s influence has extended far beyond the classroom.
“Dr. Christensen is an incredible asset to Moraine Valley,” Haney said. “Her innovative, forward-thinking approach has positively impacted the college for over two decades. I am thrilled to see her incredible work being recognized.”
The national award adds to a growing list of honors recognizing Christensen’s leadership in technology education and her efforts to connect students with careers in one of the nation’s fastest-growing industries.