Chris Taylor ’09 ’11, a senior lecturer in Appalachian State University’s Department of Computer Information Systems (CIS), has earned the university's inaugural Hickory Innovation Award in recognition of exceptional advocacy and leadership in the development and implementation of the cybersecurity program and lab.
The May 2026 edition of the Hickory Herald, an electronic newsletter for App State's Hickory campus, noted:
Taylor's vision and innovation have transformed what’s possible for our Hickory students in Cybersecurity and Computer Information Systems. Since joining the Hickory campus as a full‑time practitioner‑in‑residence, Taylor has been the driving force behind our state‑of‑the‑art Cybersecurity Lab — designing its layout, shaping its technology, and building a collaborative space where students can learn, experiment, and compete across campuses."
Taylor also secured a $40,000 grant to bring in new Cisco networking equipment, giving Hickory students hands‑on access to the same tools used by industry professionals. He continues to expand opportunities by coordinating access to a cyber range and by proposing new initiatives like a Cybersecurity Clinic and AI‑powered Security Operations Center to support local businesses.
What makes Taylor exceptional is not just his technical expertise — though his CEH and ECSA certifications speak for themselves — but the way he brings real‑world experience into the classroom. As a long‑time Network Operations Manager and consultant, he teaches students the security issues professionals face every day, preparing them for careers that truly matter.
Because of Taylor's leadership and innovation, our Hickory campus can now offer robust, hands‑on degrees in CIS and Cybersecurity, serving more than 50 students in these programs. His work has fundamentally shaped the future of technology education in Hickory.
The award was one of three new Hickory Champion Awards presented at the Cheers for Hickory 'Neers celebration on April 27.
"Students who show up ready, colleagues who back you when you come in with a new idea, that's the real driver behind anything worth recognizing," said Taylor.
About Computer Information Systems at App State
At Appalachian State University, computer information systems (CIS) students gain valuable professional skills and capabilities that prepare them for careers in a wide variety of technology-related industries. Students learn how to successfully interface between the technical and management aspects within organizations. Part of the Walker College of Business, the Department of Computer Information Systems offers
undergraduate majors in CIS and cybersecurity with concentrations in AI, plus minors in CIS and cybersecurity, all of which promote solid business acumen and technical fundamentals. Learn more at cis.appstate.edu.
Chris Taylor holds the inaugural Hickory Innovation Award in front of a banner with repeating App State Hickory logo
Chris Taylor ’09 ’11