Dr. Mary Granger’s career in information systems (IS) and academia illustrates the power of persistence, curiosity and dedication. She built an impressive legacy through mentoring students and shaping higher education programs — contributions most recently recognized with the 2024 Distinguished IS Educator Award.
Presented annually by ISCAP-EDSIG, the award honors educators who elevate IS education through exceptional teaching, research and service — a mission Dr. Granger embodies. She expressed gratitude for the honor, “It was very rewarding to be acknowledged that I made a contribution.”
The importance of lifelong learning
For Dr. Granger, the Distinguished IS Educator Award isn’t just a career milestone — it’s a reflection of her lifelong dedication to growth and innovation. “We teach our students lifelong learning, but we’ve got to do it, too,” she emphasized.
Her own academic journey spanned decades, as she returned to school repeatedly to pursue additional degrees in information systems and mathematics, culminating in her Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in 1990. “I had two kids in college when I finished my Ph.D.,” she recalled.
Dr. Granger credits much of her early success to Dr. John McKinney, her department chair at the University of Cincinnati, who encouraged her (as an instructor) to attend conferences and workshops and pursue a doctoral degree. According to Dr. Granger, her husband once quipped, “Why did I think once you got your Ph.D., you were through with school?” Throughout her career, she embraced lifelong learning wholeheartedly, attending workshops and conferences to stay at the forefront of IS education.
At institutions like the University of Cincinnati, Morgan State University, and George Washington University (GW), she inspired students to view learning as a lifelong pursuit, helping many achieve leadership roles in IS and beyond.
Strengthening IS education globally
At GW, Dr. Granger transformed undergraduate, and graduate IS programs in her role as director, creating curricula that emphasized critical thinking and real-world application. She infused her classroom with “fun,” often encouraging students: “Find what you like and excel in it.” Her innovative teaching methods helped her students rise to leadership positions, including corporate CIOs and university administrators (one just named President of Gonzaga University). “I feel like I’ve made an impact on people’s lives,” Dr. Granger articulated. “I have students that are out there making impacts on other people’s lives, also. They’re good teachers, leaders, they’re good whatever they are. And I think that’s important.”
Dr. Granger’s influence extended far beyond the United States, having taught in several different countries around the world. As a Fulbright Specialist, she contributed to Mongolia’ first IS undergraduate program, designing coursework and mentoring faculty. Her adaptability and dedication also shone in Thailand, Poland (Fulbright Scholar), Hungary and China, where she connected with diverse student groups. In Poland, her insistence on detailed feedback — a rarity in the local academic culture — initially surprised students. “You’re really tough,” one student remarked. By the end of the semester, that same student proudly credited her support and feedback for his considerable progress in improving both his technical and English skills.
Dr. Granger’s global experiences shaped her work with ABET, where she has led and participated in many numerous international and domestic site visits as a team chair and program evaluator. She currently serves as a commissioner for the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC). 2024-2025 CAC Chair Scott Murray celebrated her leadership during a controversial debate over criteria changes: “Mary immediately emailed me after the vote and said she would help find a solution. That communication showed her dedication — not just to objecting to a change, but to seeking the best outcome for ABET.”
In addition to her ABET work, she advances IS education through her associate-editorial role with the Communications of the Association for Information Systems (CAIS). She was also the co-chair for the education tracks at several AMICS and ICIS conferences. Her involvement in publishing innovative research and best practices complements her efforts at ABET to maintain high standards in IS programs worldwide.
Beyond the classroom
Her commitment to lifelong learning extends far beyond her professional achievements. A passionate traveler, Dr. Granger has visited more than 20 countries, embracing each destination as an opportunity to explore how other cultures live. She plans to add more countries to her list, but also would like to explore more of the United States. Her favorite place to travel is Barcelona, where her daughter lives.
Dr. Granger also finds time to fuel her passion for tennis by playing and watching the sport. She has attended all four Grand Slam tournaments and plays singles and doubles several times a week.
When she’s not traveling, she channels her love of learning into service. As a volunteer at the Library of Congress and her local library, she finds joy in sharing knowledge with her community. “I always wanted to own a bookstore,” she joked. “Now I work at the world’s largest one.”
Through mentoring with ABET, inspiring students around the world, or embracing new adventures, Dr. Granger exemplifies the transformative power of learning. Her journey is a powerful reminder that the best paths are those where we continue to grow, explore, and inspire others along the way.