Lyon College Vice President of Information Services and Chief Information Officer Dr. Jeremiah Cherwien has been recognized with the inaugural Susan Bartel Dissertation Award from Maryville University for his doctoral research in higher education.
The award honors graduates of Maryville University’s Doctor of Education program whose dissertations demonstrate exceptional academic rigor, scholarly writing, ethical research practices and the potential to address significant challenges facing higher education institutions.
Dr. Cherwien was selected as the first recipient of the award from dissertations successfully defended between January 1 and December 31, 2025. A faculty committee reviewed nominated dissertations before selecting a single recipient.
His award-winning dissertation, titled “Evaluating the Effectiveness of Information Security Training for Faculty and Staff,” focused on cybersecurity awareness training within higher education environments. The research was conducted while serving in his current leadership role at Lyon College.
The award was presented during the opening session of Maryville University’s Summer Residency on June 12 by Doctor of Education Program Director Dr. Jason Castles and Associate Professor of Higher Education Leadership Dr. Robin Grebing.
Lyon College President Melissa Taverner praised Dr. Cherwien’s accomplishment and the impact of his research.
“Dr. Cherwien’s research addresses a critical need in higher education at a time when cybersecurity threats continue to grow in scale and complexity,” Taverner said. “His work strengthens not only our institution but also contributes to best practices across the field.”
During the residency program, Dr. Cherwien encouraged fellow doctoral candidates to remain focused and persevere through the challenges of advanced academic study.
“Imposter syndrome is real, and I suspect most of us experience it at some point during this process,” Cherwien said. “You were admitted to this program for a reason. You belong here. Keep writing, keep moving forward and don’t give up.”
As Lyon College’s chief information officer, Dr. Cherwien oversees information technology and communications operations, leads cybersecurity initiatives, manages technology budgets and helps align digital infrastructure with the institution’s academic and administrative goals.
The recognition highlights Lyon College’s continued commitment to innovation, cybersecurity and excellence in higher education.
