Richard Pierce is Associate Professor of Curriculum and Instruction and Director of the Academic Computing Program at Shenandoah University. He earned his doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from the Texas A&M University School of Education with a graduate specialization designed to prepare technology leaders. Dr. Pierce’s research interests focus on 21st century andragogy and pedagogy, including strategies and models for the effective integration of technology at all academic levels; online student support needs, engagement, and learning; issues of diversity and digital equity; and the use of digital portfolios for professional development. He serves as the co-director of the Center for Teaching, Learning and Technology, and has published numerous journal articles, including in International Journal on E-Learning, American Journal of Pharmaceutical Education, Currents in Pharmacy Teaching and Learning, and the Journal of Applied Learning Technology. He presents frequently at conferences. He began his career in education as a secondary computer information systems instructor in rural Northeast Texas. He has taught at the graduate school level and online since 2005. He lives in Virginia, outside of Washington, D.C., with his wife and daughter.