Student Success at the Core: A CIO's Perspective on Higher Ed Leadership
At the core of every thriving institution are the people who dedicate their careers to shaping the student experience. In our monthly Heroes of Higher Ed series, we highlight individuals who go above and beyond to make a difference.
We recently spoke with George Kriss, CIO, VP of Institutional Support & Technology, Kaskaskia College. A passionate leader who thrives on innovation and student impact, Kriss shares his journey into higher education, the moments that fuel his passion, and his vision for student success.
What inspired you to pursue a career in higher education?
I briefly worked at a state job where my sole focus was in one area and I realized that this type of work was not for me. I wanted to learn as much as I could about everything. I remembered being a student worker at college, and realized that higher ed could afford me the ability to essentially dip my toes into any project I wanted, which was great. After I was able to do a lot of these projects and seeing them come to fruition, and seeing that impact on students, it was a big high for me. That made me realize that higher ed is probably where I want to be.
So, I started a cybersecurity team from the ground up. I was energized by the opportunity for me and the institution to move into a new area, but what I got in return was how this impacted the students. Developing and coaching talent was great but watching them find that confidence and eventually secure roles in major companies and three-letter agencies has been incredibly rewarding. Being able to help them succeed and find a place, a home and a group for these people, and seeing their success reminds me that higher ed has the ability to empower others. It goes far beyond the walls of our institution.
What do you love most about your job?
Watching students grow and giving them access to technology that sparks their creativity. It's amazing to see how they take an idea and run with it, shaping it into something new. That energy is what makes this job so rewarding!
How do you define student success? How can institutions better support students in finding their own path?
To me, student success is about growth and confidence—having the belief in yourself to chase a vision that matters to you.
Institutions play a big role in that journey. It's about more than just providing resources; it's about mentorship, guidance, and connection. Students need people who will invest in them and help them see a path forward. At the end of the day, we’re here for the students—that's our mission.
If you could change one thing about your role, what would it be?
I'd love to carve out time for hands-on projects—the kind that got me into this field in the first place. Leadership is fulfilling, but sometimes you miss the creative work that sparks your passion. If I could keep one or two projects for myself, just to stay connected, that would be ideal.
What makes Kaskaskia College special to you?
Students and faculty appreciate that everybody can bring their whole self. It's not about conforming to a particular expectation, department or team, or about showing up and trying to fit into a particular expectation. It's just showing up as your authentic self, contributing the best way that you can. I think that's great because we all have unique perspectives, talents and experiences. I hope that this actually is a hallmark of all of higher ed. I've been fortunate enough to have this in my previous institutions as well. When people feel seen, valued, and empowered, that’s when the real fun begins. It happens here at Kaskaskia and hopefully happens at all of higher ed.
What advice would you give to someone stepping into a leadership role in higher ed?
Try to leave the institution at a better spot than it was yesterday. Always keep the ball moving forward. Remember the students are at the heart of everything we do. Everything should revolve around them.
Specially in IT, embrace change and innovation. In higher ed we're all going through a lot of change and innovation, so we need to stay on top of it and embrace it. Being in the HR world now, I even more see the value of investing in relationships and leading with integrity. The greatest work doesn't happen alone, and when you have a great team, the tired ride raises all ships and that's a great feeling. Lastly, just stay curious. We're in higher ed and we should all keep learning because when we stop learning, we stop growing and doing great things.
How do you stay motivated and positive in your role?
I see challenges as opportunities—every obstacle is a chance to innovate. I also lean on my team; their energy keeps me going.
And sometimes, it's about the little things. Celebrating small wins, grabbing coffee with colleagues, or taking a moment to connect—it all adds up. Those small moments keep me grounded and remind me why I love what I do.
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