Dr. Cynthia Ward-Thompson Elected President of the Minnesota Academy of Science Board of Directors

[St. Paul, MN, November 2, 2021] --  The Minnesota Academy of Science (MAS) is excited to announce that Dr. Cynthia Ward-Thompson of Roseville has been elected President of the Board of Directors. Dr. Ward-Thompson brings extensive experience regarding science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education to the Minnesota nonprofit. 

“I plan to bring my experience with nonprofit leadership and finance, grant management, human resources, teaching, increasing diversity in science programs and my love of MAS into this office,” said Dr. Ward-Thompson. “I hope to help MAS develop a more stable funding source, increase representation of historically marginalized communities, and build on the successes of the past.”

Dr. Ward-Thompson’s breadth of experience as an educator includes work with Bagley Junior and Senior High Schools, Aitkin High School, the Wetland Health Evaluation Program of Hennepin County, and MIGIZI Communications, an education-based nonprofit that works with Native American families. Dr. Ward-Thompson also served as the Director of Bdote Learning Center in Minneapolis. Currently, she is a Program Specialist in the Equity and Opportunity Division at the Minnesota Department of Education. Dr. Ward-Thompson earned an EdD in Educational Leadership from Bethel University in 2015. She also holds a Master of Arts in English (2008) from the University of St. Thomas, a Master of Education (2003) from the University of Minnesota-Duluth, and Bachelors of Applied Science and Applied Arts (1998) from the University of Minnesota-Duluth.  

“Dr. Ward-Thompson brings a wealth of knowledge about the importance and impact of STEM education,” said MAS Executive Director Lara Maupin. “Her experience will benefit MAS as we work to open doors to STEM for Minnesotans of all backgrounds.”

Founded in 1873, MAS is a statewide 501(c)3 nonprofit organization committed to connecting Minnesotans of all backgrounds with resources and opportunities to engage in STEM learning, research, and communication - and to recognize excellence in these areas. MAS’ programs include team competitions, individual research paper and project showcases, and mentoring and enrichment programs that promote STEM inquiry and research.