AWIS APUS Chapter

Dr. Karen Hand is a full-time faculty member in the Information Technology and Computer Science programs for the American Public University System's School of STEM. She holds a Master's in Computer Science from the University of Maryland, as well as a Master's in Open and Distance Learning and a PhD in Instructional Systems and Learning Technologies from Florida State University. Her dissertation is entitled, “Descriptive Post Titles as Advance Organizer: Effects on Critical Thinking and Cognitive Load in Asynchronous Threaded Discussions.”. Her previous work experience in the field of computer science includes positions in the military, government, academia, and industry, in areas such as technical support, computer programming, database management, and software engineering. Dr. Hand is passionate about science and technology and about being a role model for women pursuing careers in these fields. She is excited to be a faculty advisor for the wSTEM and AWIS organizations at APUS, in addition to being a faculty advisor for the APUS Chapter of CompTIA Association for Information Technology Professionals (AITP), and she welcomes all interested students to join each of these student organizations.

Dr. Kristin Drexler is a full-time faculty of Geography and Conservation of Natural Resources for American Public University System’s School of STEM. She recently earned her PhD in Educational Leadership at New Mexico State University (NMSU) specializing in socio-ecological systems research. Drexler earned her Master of Arts degree in International Affairs/Latin American Studies from Ohio University, with an emphasis in Natural Resources Management. Drexler has conducted numerous community surveys and feasibility studies in Belize regarding agroforestry, conservation, and sustainable agriculture. Until she became a full time Instructor with APUS in 2009, Ms. Drexler was an Environmental Scientist in New Mexico, conducting field biology surveys and environmental impact analyses. Drexler founded the Belize Field School Program at NMSU, coordinating short courses in Belize in wildlife science, marine ecology, agriculture, and documentary film (2006-2014). Most recently, Drexler produced an award-winning short film, “Yochi” (2016), a story about youth conservation and action against poaching and illegal wildlife trade. In the late 90s, Drexler served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Belize; she now serves on the board of directors for Full Basket Belize, a U.S. nonprofit, which provides high school scholarships and community grants in Belize. She also regularly volunteers for the Mesilla Valley Film Society in Las Cruces, NM.

Dr. Jack Galvan received his Master’s Degree in Information Systems from the Honors University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC). Jack obtained his Ph.D. in Business Management specializing in Information Systems, from Northcentral University. His persistence in his education then landed him as the Chief Technology Officer and Director of I.T. working for a Market Research Firm in Florida for six years. Dr. Galvan currently serves as the Department Chair for STEM General Education MATH.