WATERVILLE, MAINE, June 2022 — Thomas College’s Program Director for Centers of Innovation Amanda Nguyen was named one of 20 to Watch by The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) for her work as an innovate educator creating transformational learning experiences for students.

The ISTE 20 to Watch Award recognizes 20 up-and-coming individuals who are already making a difference through their work. Winners have exemplified excellence through projects or artifacts that others can replicate.
The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) is a nonprofit focusing on accelerating innovation in education.
Nguyen was recognized during ISTELive 22 in New Orleans on June 26-29.
“We are delighted to spotlight some of the most innovative educators from around the globe for their tireless commitment to transform learning for all students,” said Richard Culatta, CEO of ISTE. “Each of these educators have made a tremendous impact on the quality of learning and student engagement during a very challenging time. Congratulations to all the honorees!”
Nguyen was chosen among educators across the globe. Her work at Thomas College leading innovative projects designed to increase the employability of Thomas students, as well as the career aspirations of future students, has made a tremendous impact on our community and on our students.
“It’s so satisfying to see an amazing organization like ISTE recognize Amanda’s work. Not only is she incredibly innovative along with having a unique ability to identify what the people that she’s working with need, she has what appears to be this super power of being able to execute her plans at a level of near perfection. Creativity with the ability to execute is a very rare paring and Amanda has it,” said Thomas College VP of Innovation Mike Duguay.
This fall, Nguyen was also awarded the ACTEM’s ACHIEVE award or the ‘Making IT Happen’ award. It was celebrated in Maine in the fall and again this week during ISTElive for all the honorees across the globe.
Nguyen was also recognized at ISTELive for her Volunteer Service Award.
About ISTE: The International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) is a nonprofit organization that works with the global education community to accelerate innovation in education through the smart use of technology. Our worldwide network believes in the potential technology holds to transform teaching and learning.
ISTE sets a bold vision for education transformation through the ISTE Standards, a framework for students, educators, administrators, coaches and computer science educators to rethink education and create innovative learning environments. ISTE hosts ISTELive, one of the world’s most influential annual edtech events. The organization’s professional learning offerings include online courses, professional networks, year-round academies, peer-reviewed journals and other publications. ISTE is also the leading publisher of books focused on technology in education. For more information or to become an ISTE member, visit iste.org.
About Thomas College
Thomas College, located in beautiful Waterville, Maine, is defining what it means to be the College of the Future. With a strong commitment to innovation, career readiness, and community partnerships, Thomas College is consistently ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of Maine’s top colleges for social mobility. Our distinctive Guaranteed Job Program™, accelerated undergraduate degrees, and flexible graduate programs empower students to advance faster in business, entrepreneurship, education, technology, applied STEM, and arts & science fields. At Thomas, belonging isn’t a buzzword; it’s a promise. We create a supportive, welcoming environment where every student is seen, valued, and prepared to thrive in a rapidly changing world. For more information visit thomas.edu or contact MacKenzie Riley Young at [email protected] or 207-859-1313. Find us on Facebook, Instagram, X, YouTube, LinkedIn, and TikTok.