Oakton’s Ed Gallagher receives Microsoft MVP award for 10th straight year

(May 23, 2016) Oakton Community College Microsoft Curriculum Coordinator Ed Gallagher has been awarded Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP) for his outstanding contributions in Windows and Devices for IT technical communities during the past year. The MVP honor, Gallagher’s 10th in a row, is given to exceptional leaders who actively share their high quality, real-world expertise with others.

Gallagher, a computer networking and systems (CNS) instructor at Oakton since 2000, has more than 70 technical certifications and developed the college’s Microsoft Certification program in 2003. He also has served as the advisor the Chicago Computer Society, a club that offers opportunities for students to enhance knowledge and understanding of computer software and hardware. When he’s not teaching at Oakton, Gallagher works as an IT consultant, designing and building networks for various size companies across the country.

Microsoft began the MVP Awards in the early 1990s as a way to recognize those members of the general public who devoted their time and considerable technical expertise to helping users in various online technical forums. Gradually, the Microsoft MVP program evolved, and awards are now given to the most outstanding members for their exceptional contributions to hundreds of online and offline technical communities.

“If I keep winning this award, I must be doing something right and contributing to help many people,” Gallagher said. “I’m truly blessed to be doing something I love and am very humbled to be honored again. I’m a computer geek whose main goal is to assist Oakton students. To do that, I have to keep up with technology that is constantly changing. I love the challenge of trying to stay one step ahead. In the technology field if you fall behind, you’re finished.”

Oakton officials appreciate the countless hours Gallagher puts in for his students.

“Ed exhibits a rare combination of technical expertise and sincere generosity of spirit,” said Oakton Dean of Mathematics and Technologies Bob Sompolski. “He works tirelessly on behalf of the college to ensure that our networking students learn in a stable and predictable software environments. Oakton is indeed fortunate to have such a faculty member in its ranks.”

Gallagher received personal correspondence from Microsoft praising him for his dedication and hard work.

“The Microsoft MVP Award provides the unique opportunity to celebrate and honor your significant contributions and say thank you for your technical leadership,” Microsoft Director of Community and Advocacy Programs Patrick Malone said via email.

Gallagher and other Microsoft MVPs will be honored during the company’s MVP Global Summit, which will be held November 7-10, 2016, in Redmond, Washington. The conference also will allow award winners to connect with other MVPs, build relationships with Microsoft product managers, and provide feedback on Microsoft products and technologies.