Bio
Cynthia Overton, Ph.D., is a principal researcher with American Institutes for Research (AIR) where she leads projects and tasks designed to improve outcomes for traditionally underrepresented populations. Professional highlights include serving as the lead researcher for the National Council on Disability’s Annual Progress Report to the White House and Congress in 2014, 2015, and 2016 (the 2016 report focused on technology and disability); evaluating programs designed to increase the number of people of color in STEM disciplines; leading knowledge translation activities to make research findings understandable and useful to diverse populations; and developing whitepapers, articles, and tools to encourage the use of innovative technology among people with disabilities. In addition to project work, Cynthia helped launch diversity and inclusion initiatives at AIR. She currently chairs the Access AIR employee resource group (ERG) and previously chaired the Black, Latino, African American, African, and Caribbean Diaspora Network ERG. Cynthia is also an active member of AIR’s Diversity and Inclusion Council. Outside of AIR, she serves in an advisory capacity for 1776 (on inclusive technology), Quality Education for Minorities Network, and Art Beyond Sight. Cynthia earned a B.A. in English from Hampton University, an M.P.S. in PR/corporate communications from Georgetown University, an M.S. and Ph.D. in educational technology from the University of Michigan, and an Assistive Technology Applications Certificate from California State University, Northridge Center on Disabilities.