Full-Time Teacher of the Year:
Thomas Cullen
Instructor, Chemistry
School of Physical Sciences and Technologies
Irvine Valley College proudly honors Professor Thomas Cullen as the 2025 Outstanding Full-Time Teacher of the Year for his dynamic contributions to teaching, student engagement, and science education both on campus and in the community.
A respected faculty member in the School of Physical Sciences and Technologies, Professor Cullen is known for transforming chemistry from a daunting subject into an inspiring journey. His clarity, enthusiasm, and knack for simplifying complex topics spark curiosity and build student confidence—regardless of their background or prior experience.
Beyond the classroom, Cullen’s leadership and dedication are just as impactful. He serves on key campus committees—including the Academic Affairs Committee, the Physical Sciences Completion Team, and the Student Learning Outcomes Committee—where his work enhances academic quality and institutional progress.
He also co-advises IVC’s Chemistry Club, ChemUnity, where he fosters student connections, hands-on experiences, and mentorship opportunities that bring science to life outside the lecture hall. Under his guidance, the club has become a vibrant hub for community-building and exploration in the field.
But his passion doesn’t stop at IVC’s borders. Cullen extends his love of science to the broader community, organizing the Science and Engineering Fair and STEAM Night at his children’s elementary school—encouraging the next generation of thinkers, tinkerers, and trailblazers. Students frequently praise Cullen as “dedicated, patient, and supportive,” with one student sharing, “His class reignited my passion for science and reassured me that I am capable of exceeding my own expectations.”
For his exceptional service, inspiring instruction, and tireless advocacy for student success, Thomas Cullen has been named not only the 2025 Teacher of the Year but also the keynote speaker for this year’s IVC Commencement.
Emeritus Institute Teacher of the Year:
Kris Dickenson
Associate Faculty, Health and Fitness for Mature Adults
Emeritus Institute
Irvine Valley College proudly recognizes Kris Dickenson as the 2025 Emeritus Teacher of the Year for her outstanding dedication to health, fitness, and the well-being of older adult learners. As a longtime faculty member in IVC’s Emeritus Program, Kris has created a lasting impact through her passionate teaching and unwavering commitment to student success. Her classes are more than just workouts—they’re vibrant communities where seniors feel supported, empowered, and inspired to thrive.
With deep expertise in exercise science and senior fitness, Kris designs thoughtful, individualized programs that help students improve strength, balance, and overall health. She meets each student where they are, creating an inclusive space where participants of all abilities feel safe, motivated, and seen.
But Kris’s influence goes beyond physical wellness. Through her energy and encouragement, she builds strong bonds among her students, cultivating a warm and welcoming environment that fosters both personal connection and community support.
Students consistently praise Kris for making fitness enjoyable, accessible, and meaningful. Her uplifting spirit, personalized approach, and genuine care turn each class into a celebration of movement and vitality. Many credit her with changing their outlook on health and inspiring a lifelong commitment to wellness.
Through her innovative instruction and compassionate leadership, Kris Dickenson has helped redefine what aging actively and confidently can look like. Her work not only strengthens bodies but also enriches lives.
In recognition of her exceptional contributions and lasting impact, IVC and the South Orange County Community College District are proud to honor Kris Dickenson as the 2025 Emeritus Teacher of the Year.
Part-Time Teacher of the Year:
Sylvia Henel
Associate Faculty, Adult English as a Second Language
School of Languages and Learning Resources
Irvine Valley College proudly honors Sylvia Henel as the 2025 Part-Time Teacher of the Year for her extraordinary contributions to ESL education and her unwavering dedication to student success.
Sylvia’s journey as an educator spans continents. Born in New York and raised in Europe and the Middle East, she returned to the U.S. to pursue higher education, earning degrees from Connecticut College, Harvard University, and the University of Hawai’i in applied linguistics. Her global experience and academic excellence have shaped a teaching philosophy rooted in empathy, clarity, and deep cultural awareness.
Before joining IVC, Sylvia taught ESL at Mt. San Antonio College and California State University, Fullerton—where she was recognized for teaching excellence in 2016. When her previous program closed, Sylvia brought her talents to Irvine Valley College, becoming an integral part of the college’s renowned Adult ESL program.
Colleagues and students alike praise Sylvia for her passion, patience, and dedication. Her classroom is a space where students feel supported and empowered. Through structured and engaging lessons, she helps students gain confidence in their English skills while building a strong sense of community.
Students consistently describe Sylvia as one of the best instructors they’ve ever had. Her ability to design interactive, learner-centered curriculum inspires participation and growth, especially for adult learners navigating language and cultural challenges.
Beyond teaching, Sylvia remains active in the broader ESL field by attending and contributing to regional and statewide conferences, further advancing language education in California. In recognition of her exceptional teaching, commitment to lifelong learning, and transformative impact on students, Sylvia Henel is celebrated as a shining example of excellence at Irvine Valley College.