Chris Cunnings

Chris Cunnings is an Associate Professor and Director of the School of Education at Millikin University. With over sixteen years of experience in education, he combines classroom teaching expertise and educational research. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (2006) and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry Education (2007), followed by a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership (Olivet Nazarene University) and a Doctor of Education in Curriculum & Instruction (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign). His research focuses on STEAM education, constructivist learning theory, and digital learning technologies.

• Illinois teaching and school leadership licensure
• Former high school science/mathematics teacher (Wilmington High School, 8 years)

Research Interests explore the integration of technology in education and the relationship between extracurricular engagement and academic achievement. His 2015 Harvard-invited work examined 1-to-1 digital learning implementations in physics classrooms.

Scientific Accolades

• 2011 WGN-TV Teacher of the Month
• 2013 ISTA/Exxon Mobil Outstanding Teacher of Science Award
• 2018 Millikin University Alpha Lambda Delta Outstanding Teaching Award
• 2020 James Millikin Estate Professorship in Education
• 2023 CFP Foundation 'Extra Yard for Teachers Award'