Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

Kris Lien, a teacher at Lourdes Central Catholic School in Nebraska City, will be honored with the St. John Cantius Award as the Diocese of Lincoln’s Secondary Educator of the Year. Lien has spent 26 years in education, beginning his career at Fort Dodge High School in Iowa before moving into Catholic education.

Lien described his path to teaching as initially motivated by job security and a passion for football. “Growing up on a farm, sometimes you had good summers, sometimes you didn’t,” Lien recalled. “So security was something they really stressed in finding our future role.” He added, “I wasn’t that great of a player, but I still loved the game. So I wanted to ensure I had an opportunity to work within the passion of football somehow. And I saw teaching as being the easiest pathway to do that.”

His first position was at Fort Dodge High School where he spent 16 years and began exploring Catholicism despite being raised Lutheran. “I did not grow up Catholic. I grew up Lutheran – kind of JV Catholic, I guess, keeping the football theme going,” he joked.

As his faith developed, Lien transitioned to teaching at St. Edmond in Fort Dodge before eventually moving to Lourdes Central Catholic School six years ago.

Lien reflected on differences between public and Catholic schools: “At a public school, you really are handcuffed when it came to being able to speak openly about the truth and reality of God, of Jesus Christ, and of the Holy Spirit,” he explained. “As I was starting my own personal faith transition, I knew I did not want that to be part of my reality anymore.”

He expressed appreciation for how Lourdes allows students academic growth alongside opportunities for faith exploration: “I love the fact that my own kids can go to a really awesome Catholic school like Lourdes and get exposure to the truths of our faith, as well as a good education in math, English, history. It’s not just about faith, although that is the most important thing.”

Lien said teaching science helps connect academics with spiritual understanding: “Within all of that is a pathway to deepen your understanding of God and build a relationship with Him. It’s His natural revelation. And that’s why I love it.”

He values spontaneous discussions about faith during class time: “I might have a plan for class, but then someone asks a question about the faith. For the next half hour, that’s what we’re exploring. By God’s grace, I’ve helped them come to a deeper understanding.”

Regarding receiving recognition for his work as an educator Lien stated: “This literally came out of nowhere. It was not something I was ever wanting for.” He credited mentors from early in his career and emphasized gratitude toward colleagues who encouraged him.

Lien also thanked supportive administrators at Lourdes Central Catholic School along with his family: “I’m sorry if I ever embarrass them,” he laughed,“but I truly love seeing them at school. It’s one of the little blessings I have as a teacher.”

Looking ahead at trends within local education he said,“I think there’s more that can be done that will be even more fruitful for our students... Within the Diocese of Lincoln there are people and schools that are definitely on fire and ready for that.I’m excited to see where that goes.”

The award will be presented Oct. 12 during the third annual Saints & Scholars dinner celebrating educators and benefactors across the Diocese. Further details can be found at www.goodshepherdscholarship.com.