Connor Krater, a 2023 University of Illinois Springfield master’s in history graduate, was honored on April 12, 2024, with the Outstanding Master’s Thesis Award for the 2022-2023 academic year.

His thesis, advised by Professor Heather Bailey, explores the diplomatic strategies of Klemens von Metternich in the context of 19th-century European politics, challenges traditional categorizations of Metternich as merely a conservative, liberal or reactionary figure, arguing instead that he was a pragmatist adapting to varying geopolitical circumstances.

Since completing his degree, Krater has embarked on a career in education, joining Teach For America and currently teaches middle school social studies at Prodeo Academy in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

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