Dr. Karen Coale Tracey, professor of computer electronics and graphics technology at Central Connecticut State University, has been presented with the Outstanding Professor of Industrial Technology Award by the National Association of Industrial Technology (NAIT). The award was made at the recent NAIT Annual Conference in Louisville, Kentucky. Dr. Tracey is chair of the Computer Electronics and Graphics Technology Department in CCSU’s School of Technology.

Dr. Z.B. Kremens, Dean of CCSU’s School of Technology, hailed Dr. Tracey as “a devoted instructor and student advisor, who loves teaching, mentoring and advising students, and is always available for them. She has been a leader in the development of a Networking Technology specialization in the Bachelor of Science in Industrial Technology undergraduate program, which is one of the fastest growing programs in our school. Dr. Tracey also serves as a coordinator of the graduate program in Computer Information Technology. She has been directly involved in developing a new Computer Engineering Technology program in her department.

“ In my opinion, Dr. Tracey represents exemplary academic and professional standards in the industrial technology field,” Dean Kremens continued. “The NAIT recognition of her achievements will encourage many other talented women to pursue professional careers in technology disciplines. She has been Chair of the Department of Computer Electronics and Graphics Technology since 2001 and last year was re-elected for 2004-2007 term. In this position Dr. Tracey has already demonstrated leadership skills, dedication and responsibility for her department.

“It is noteworthy that she is the first woman elected to chair a department in the School of Technology,” Kremens said. “For several years she served as the school’s Graduate Coordinator. Dr. Tracey has also served as faculty advisor to three student clubs; Women in Technology, Society of Information Technology, and the Golden Key National Honor Society.”

- Dr. Tracey holds an appointment to the Editorial Advisory Board for the Journal of the American Academy of Business, Cambridge, Mass., and recently received the 27th annual HOPES Award presented by the Archdiocese of Hartford for service to Catholic schools.

The National Association of Industrial Technology is the premiere professional association responsible for promoting industrial technology in business, industry, education, and government. Major U.S. colleges and universities subscribe to NAIT standards of professional excellence.

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Left: Dr. Karen Coale Tracey (Left), professor of computer electronics and graphics technology at Central Connecticut State University, received the Outstanding Professor of Industrial Technology Award of the National Association of Industrial Technology (NAIT) from Dr. Barry G. David (right), Director of NAIT's Region 1 University Division.