Who Is Dr. Cindy Smith ?

Dr. Cindy Smith’s contagious curiosity invites others to see the natural world through her eyes, and feel empowered to explore nature on their own. Through engaging videos and hands- on activities, she routinely  finds unique ways to connect viewers to what is happening daily in nature, especially in their own backyard.  She draws our attention to what many often overlook. From talking with tree frogs on her front porch, exploring pollen on a common dandelion to searching for character faces peeping from textured tree bark, she shows us that nature stories are everywhere, if we just take the time to unplug and step outside. Viewers will find her videos uniquely engaging as she explores various habitats and encourages us to do the same. 

Dr. Smith’s background includes providing hands-on training programs to master gardeners, lawn and landscape professionals and K-12 teachers. As an Environmental Science and Policy Professor, facilitator and K-12 Education Director at George Mason University’s Potomac Science Center, she trains K12 teachers in strategies to connect their students to the environment. Dr. Smith specializes in translating environmental research into STEM exhibits and active learning programs. Her team of field interpreters has delivered award-winning Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences to over 100,000 middle school students. Dr. Smith intentionally builds connections between school districts, industry, local, state and federal environmental organizations to improve delivery of STEM programs to youth, K12 teachers, elected officials, local leaders and the general public. Her unique background spanning education, industry and business, lends itself to her uncanny ability to translate science to the public.