McHenry County College (MCC) earth science instructor Kate Kramer was recently named the recipient of the Illinois Community College Trustees Association (ICCTA) 2023 Outstanding Full-Time Faculty Member Award. The award recognizes the high achievement of Illinois full-time community college instructors.
Earlier in the year, Kramer received the MCC Faculty of the Year award, which made her one of 30 nominees for the statewide ICCTA award. She was presented the award at the ICCTA banquet on June 2 in Normal, IL.
“Kate exemplifies the best of what it means to be MCC faculty,” said Dr. Arlene Santos-George, Vice President of Academic Affairs and Workforce Development. “She is incredibly passionate about the study of earth science and has inspired many of her students to pursue the same field. She teaches students how to examine the world from the perspective of science and sustainability.”
“I am deeply honored and humbled to receive this award,” said Kramer. “As a professor, my goal has always been to create an engaging and inclusive classroom environment where students feel valued and empowered to explore new ideas. I strive to cultivate critical thinking, encourage intellectual curiosity, and foster a love for lifelong learning. This award is a reflection of the impact I have made in these areas, and it motivates me to continue pushing the boundaries of education.”
Kramer also expressed gratitude to her colleagues, who she says have been a constant source of support and inspiration.
“Their collaboration and shared commitment to excellence have contributed significantly to my growth as an educator,” she said. “This award symbolizes MCC’s commitment to nurturing a culture of excellence and innovation in education. I am honored to be a part of such a community.”
In addition to making a difference in the classroom, Kramer is also the chair of the Earth Science department, a member of the Sustainability Committee, and a mentor for the STEM Scholars program. On MCC’s campus, she was instrumental in the creation of a Geoscene wall, a hands-on learning tool which features the shapes, colors, and composition of various rocks found underground.
Kramer has taught Earth Science at MCC since 2009. She has an undergraduate degree in hydrogeology from University of Wisconsin Oshkosh and a master’s degree in glacial geology from Indiana University. She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in education for sustainability at University of Wisconsin Stevens Point.
