Dr. Cheryl A. Swanier is an associate professor in Fort Valley State University’s Department of Mathematics and Computer Science. Dr. Swanier conducts research in Human Computer Interaction with an emphasis in visual programming of educational simulations with end user programming and educational gaming technologies. Swanier is a recipient of the 2013 NCWIT Undergraduate Research Mentoring Award. Swanier chairs the annual Research Day Program at her institution, which showcases the research of faculty and students. Dr. Swanier works with outreach initiatives to improve computer science education at all levels. Dr. Swanier works with many programs focused on increasing the computing pipeline by getting students interested in STEM disciplines and future technology careers.