Breaking Barriers in STEM: The Inspiring Path of Dr. Kristene ‘Tina’ Henne
For Dr. Kristene “Tina” Henne, education was always a priority, though it looked different in her family than in households where college was the assumed path. Her father worked in a glass factory after serving in the Navy, and her mother devoted herself to raising the family. While her parents did not attend college themselves, they instilled in Tina and her siblings the value of hard work and persistence. “My mom would have loved to have gone to college, but it wasn’t in the cards for her,” Tina recalls. “She loved helping us with homework and hearing about our day at school.”
As a first-generation college graduate, Tina knows firsthand the challenges of navigating higher education. She earned her Radiography degree from Kankakee Community College before transferring to Governors State University, where she completed her Bachelor of Science in Biology while working overnight shifts. “It was sometimes tricky arranging my work schedule around my classes,” she says. “I’m just grateful GSU understood the needs of working adults at the time. I had a good group of friends and close family in college at the same time. We challenged each other, studied together, and cheered for each other to do well.”
At GovState, Tina discovered her love of microbiology—a passion that shaped her academic and professional future. With encouragement from professors like Dr. Tim Gsell, Dr. Phyllis Klingensmith, and the late Dr. Joyce Mohberg, she gained the confidence to pursue graduate study. “They were approachable, supportive, and willing to talk about science outside of class. Their mentorship and recommendations opened the door for me to earn my graduate degree in microbiology and molecular genetics at Purdue University,” Tina reflects.
Today, Tina serves as Manager of the Argonne Mentoring Program, where she supports postdoctoral researchers and staff at various career stages. For her, mentorship is both a calling and a way to pay it forward. “We all have mentors throughout our lives. Being able to get sound advice and talk through challenges with a trusted mentor is huge, especially at critical career stages,” she explains. Her own career transition—from postdoctoral research to program management—was made possible by a supportive community at Argonne, and she is committed to creating that same environment for others.
Tina is passionate about offering advice to students and early-career professionals. She emphasizes curiosity, adaptability, and communication. “Seek advice—there is always someone who has walked a similar path. Learn about communication styles, check your assumptions, and remember to breathe when faced with challenges.” For women in STEM, she underscores the importance of networking, mentorship, and exploration: “Join professional societies, follow organizations on LinkedIn, and seek out internship opportunities. National laboratories, for example, do a great job highlighting stories of their people and research—you just have to look for them.”
Looking back, Tina says she is most proud of staying true to her core values. Coming from a blue-collar background, she was determined to remain grounded in humility while excelling in her field. “There is a perception that academics are elitist, but that has not been my experience. Most people I’ve met along the way have been open, giving, and down-to-earth. Scientists want to see others succeed.”
Her journey from working nights as a radiographer to managing mentorship at one of the nation’s premier laboratories is proof that there is no single path to success. As she advises students and alumni alike: “There is no one ‘right way’ to achieve your goals. Do what is right for you, keep at it, don’t let challenges overwhelm you, and you’ll be fine.”
A Message from the Alumni Association at GovState:
Dr. Henne, thank you for sharing your inspiring journey with us. Your story is a powerful example of perseverance, passion, and the impact of mentorship. We are proud to call you a Jaguar and grateful for the way you continue to guide and empower the next generation of scientists and professionals. Your dedication to lifting others reflects the very best of Governors State University.
Author: Jocelyn Bell, Alumni Relations Communication Coordinator