one thing i know is true:
I’m passionate about growth.
We do our best work when we show up as whole humans. Over the arc of my career, I’ve learned how to meet organizational needs with authenticity, curiosity, and a genuine connection to the people doing the work.
If I had to describe myself in two words, they’d be curious and brave. I bring both into my design practice through creative problem-solving, exploratory thinking, and a willingness to dig into the hard stuff.
Learning design asks you to think analytically and create intuitively, often at the same time. I love that intersection. Collaboration, systems thinking, and thoughtful iteration are where I shine.
At the end of the day, I’m motivated by helping teams do more together than they could do alone, in a way that feels human, grounded, and genuinely impactful.
Places I’ve Worked and Learned
Education
Ed.D., Education – Walden University, 2014
Researched how to craft engaging, effective curricula and provide dynamic instruction. Also deep-dived into the assessment of learning data, using statistical and qualitative approaches to measure learning (#datanerd).
M.S., Geoscience – University of Iowa, 2006
Researched how to craft engaging, effective curricula and provide dynamic instruction. Also deep-dived into the assessment of learning data, using statistical and qualitative approaches to measure learning (#datanerd).
B.A., Geology – Ohio Wesleyan University, 2004
Found my passion for balancing deductive and creative thinking through the natural sciences. Learned a lot about rocks and cultivated my love for the outdoors.
Certifications
LearnOps Certification – Cognota, 2024
Earned a LearnOps certification from Cognota to streamline learning operations, improve intake processes, and strengthen end-to-end L&D workflow
Instructional Design Certification – Association for Talent Development, 2022
Applied best practices for conducting a needs assessment, completing a task analysis, and designing and developing courses.
Job Instruction (JI) Certification – Training Within Industry, 2020
Learned how to train others efficiently to standard operating procedures, ensuring process stability and repeatability.
Training, Leadership, and Academic Positions
2024 –
Training Program Manager
REI
Program managed enterprise learning solutions for 175 stores, leading design, timelines, and cross-functional alignment for onboarding and training programs.
2022 -2024
Sr. Training Content Designer
REI
Created metrics-driven training curriculum and instructional design for Merchandising and Supply Chain teams, from video-based eLearning to virtual instructor-led workshops.
2021 – 2022
Training Manager
Penumbra
Led 17-member department, delivering 1400+ training classes per year to 450 employees and supervisors, with participant ratings of 4.9 out of 5.
2020-2021
Training Supervisor
Penumbra
Rapidly scaled team from 3 to 13 members, managing performance while expanding operations across shifts. Orchestrated 10+ programs, including as-needed curriculum design and implementation.
2019-2020
Training Specialist
Penumbra
Executed new employee orientation, leadership development, and production training, including SOPs, work instruction, and quality system regulations at a manufacturing site that 11x headcount in 3 years.
2018-2019
Assistant Dean of Academic Excellence
Carrington College
Coordinated all academic operations across 7 academic programs for a 400+ student population. Supervised 20+ program directors, faculty, and staff.
2015-2018
Director of Continuous Improvement
Laureate Education
Conducted quality assurance reviews for 5 regional and programmatic accreditors across 3 universities, preparing resources for campus leaders in advance of upcoming accreditation visits.
2013-2015
Special Assistant to the President
The National Hispanic University
Executed academic administration for 10 programs at the certificate, undergraduate, and graduate levels, in alignment with organizational and regulatory objectives. Supervised 10+ program directors and FTE faculty and 30+ contract faculty members.
2012-2013
Program Director (Interim), Math and Science Department
The National Hispanic University
Launched 3 degree concentrations within the program, managed 2 science labs and supervised 5 faculty members. Managed 500K budget and oversaw 2 NSF grants.
2009-2012
Faculty, Math and Science Department
The National Hispanic University
Instructed 5 college-level mathematics and science courses, focusing on improving STEM enrollment and retention.
2006-2008
Teacher, Peace Corps
Tanzanian Ministry of Education
Taught 100+ students high-school level algebra and chemistry in service with United States Peace Corps.
Enough about work. Who’s Cynthia, anyway?
Think: curious by nature, outdoorsy by choice, and a little too excited about a fresh set of pens. I love wandering through new places with my family, collecting muddy boots and big views along the way. Planning the next adventure is half the fun, especially with a too-big latte nearby.
