KINGSVILLE (July 3, 2025) — Dr. Jeffery Chernosky, assistant professor of Educational Leadership & Counseling and co-coordinator of the Instructional Technology Program at Texas A&M University-Kingsville (TAMUK) was honored with the International Society for technology in Education and Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ISTE+ASCD) 20 To Watch Award during their first ever co-located annual conference which ran from June 29 through July 2 in San Antonio.
The award recognizes 20 up-and-coming individuals from the US and abroad who are already making a difference through their work. Winners have exemplified excellence through projects or artifacts that others can replicate.
“It’s a humbling honor, especially knowing the scope of educators being recognized from across the globe who are doing innovative work at the intersection of technology, teaching, and student success,” Chernosky said. “For me, this recognition reflects a lot of what I’ve tried to focus on here at Texas A&M-Kingsville: blending technology with culture to create meaningful, student-centered learning experiences — whether that’s through doctoral mentoring, instructional design, AI integration, or even some of the unique projects like Conchas, Café, y Compañía where we bring South Texas leadership stories to life through podcasting.”
As a nominee for the 20 To Watch Award, Chernosky was tasked with submitting work narratives in detail, impactful stories and digital portfolios. Among his submitted items were projects directly connected to TAMUK students and the community which show how Hispanic-serving institutions, first-generation students and faculty development are supported through innovation.
“What makes this award special is that it recognizes not just the use of technology, but how it can be applied to foster belonging, elevate cultural identity, and open up new learning pathways for students who may not always see themselves represented,” Chernosky said. “That’s the real reward — seeing students thrive.”
“On a personal level, this award means a great deal to me because it's really a reflection of the people who’ve poured into me along the way — mentors, colleagues, students, and my own family,” Chernosky added. “As a first-generation college student, myself, I never imagined being part of this kind of conversation at an international level. It reminds me daily that the work we do here matters — and that blending culture, innovation, and relationships can truly open doors for students who may have once questioned if those doors were meant for them.”
The ISTE+ASCD is the largest innovation-focused education non-profit worldwide, serving over a million educators in every US state and over 100 countries around the world. ISTE+ASCD offers inspiring events, professional certifications, dynamic member communities, and innovative thought leadership to help educators create transformational learning experiences.
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