Staff

Cherie Meador, Ed.D.

Dean, Academic Services and Strategic Initiatives

Cherie joined the College in December 2019 to oversee assessment, catalog, curriculum, scheduling, academic handbooks, and policies. In addition to these responsibilities, in April of 2024, Cherie assumed oversight of two off-campus locations and the Center for Teaching and Learning department. Cherie has nearly 25 years of higher education administrative and college teaching experience.

Kristine Christensen, Ph.D.

Director, Faculty Development
Professor, Management Information Systems

Kristine began teaching web development and design, computer programming and e-commerce full-time in 2000 and joined the CTL staff as the director of Faculty Development in 2003. She is a full-time faculty member and maintains a full teaching load. In addition to her primary responsibility as chair of the Faculty Development committee, Kristine assists in the development of the CTL workshop brochure, sits on the Steering Team and Advisory Professional Development Team and has designed, developed and delivered various workshops for the CTL.

Kristine received the Professor of the Year award in 2004, the Innovation of the Year Award in 2007 along with her colleagues who also serve on the MVLA steering team, and the Master Teacher award in 2008.

Kristine holds a Bachelor of Science in Business and double majored in Human Resource Management and Industrial Psychology from Valparaiso University, an MBA with an emphasis in Consulting from Eastern Illinois University, a Master of Science in Management Information Systems with an emphasis in Electronic Commerce from Governors State University, a Master of Science in Teaching and Learning from St. Francis University, a graduate certificate in Online Communications and Web Design from the University of Florida, and a Ph.D. in Community College Leadership from Old Dominion University.

Kristine can answer questions about Professional Growth Units (PGUs), funding for travel, or sabbatical requests, as well as help locate professional development opportunities. She welcomes feedback and suggestions for faculty professional development programming. Contact her at christensen@morainevalley.edu.

Kristine’s primary responsibilities include:

• Chairing the Faculty Development Committee and supporting its work with faculty travel requests, professional growth units, sabbatical requests, faculty recognition, and major faculty-development events.
• Designing professional development opportunities for faculty.
• Serving on a variety of college committees.
• Researching and developing resources for faculty.

Lisa Dyrda, M.S.

Assistant Dean, Academic Services & Director, Center for Teaching & Learning

Lisa joined the Center for Teaching and Learning (CTL) in May 2004.

As Assistant Dean of Academic Services, Lisa works in close collaboration with and under the direction of the Dean to support the leadership and strategic direction of all Academic Services departments. These include the Center for Teaching and Learning, Academic Scheduling and Facilities, Assessment, Curriculum, and Academic Outreach/Extension Center.

In her concurrent role as Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning, Lisa leads initiatives focused on instructional design, instructional technology (including the Canvas Learning Management System and related systems), distance learning, and professional development for adjunct faculty.

Lisa is also an adjunct faculty member in the Computer Information and Office Technologies department.

Lisa holds an Associate in Applied Science in Management Information Systems and an Associate in Science in Computer Science from Moraine Valley Community College. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business and Applied Science from Governors State University and a Master of Science in Teaching and Learning from the University of St. Francis.

Scot Yonan

LMS Administrator & Instructional Technology Specialist

Scot joined Moraine Valley Community College as LMS Administrator and Instructional Technology Specialist.

In this role, Scot supports the college’s use of Canvas and related instructional technologies, working with faculty and academic departments to improve online, hybrid, and technology-enhanced teaching and learning. His work includes LMS administration, faculty support and training, course design consultation, instructional technology troubleshooting, and helping ensure that Canvas is structured and used effectively across the college.

Scot brings more than 20 years of experience in instructional design, learning technology, LMS administration, online learning, and faculty development. He has worked with colleges, universities, nonprofits, and corporate learning teams to design effective courses, improve learning systems, support instructors, and create practical, learner-centered training.

Scot holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Millikin University.

Sofia Ramos

Program Assistant

Sofia joined the CTL in May of 2026. In her role, Sofia supports professional development logistics and communications, helping the CTL continue to offer and support meaningful programming for faculty. Before joining the CTL, she worked at the college extension site in Blue Island, supporting students, faculty, and campus operations. She is passionate about fostering professional growth and contributing to initiatives that enhance teaching and learning.

Sofia has a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education and is currently working towards a master’s degree in Higher Education Leadership.

Linda Sanduski

Secretary II

Primary responsibilities include:

• Assisting the Dean with matters pertaining to the CTL.
• Helping plan and organize events such as New Faculty Orientation week, New Faculty Reception, Community Learning Day, Learning College Day, and the Faculty/Staff Recognition Reception.
• Assisting faculty with professional growth units, travel authorizations, and sabbatical requests.
• Supporting the Master Teacher and Professor of the Year awards.
• Assisting faculty and staff and providing information regarding programs and services offered by the CTL.
• Scheduling CTL facilities.