2024-2025 ATE Future Leaders Fellows
AACC is pleased to announce its inaugural class of ATE Future Leaders Fellows.
Cheryl Burrell
Program Coordinator of Biotechnology
Forsyth Technical Community College, NC
Dr. Cheryl Burrell, Program Coordinator of the biotechnology program at Forsyth Technical Community College, has an extensive 24-year career in the bioscience field. Her diverse expertise encompasses clinical laboratory science, academic research, and teaching. Holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Medical Technology from Northern Caribbean University and a PhD in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics from Loma Linda University, Dr. Burrell is academically well-grounded. She is ACUE (Association of College and University Educators) advanced certified, reflecting a keen interest in discovering more efficient ways to enhance teaching and learning in an academic setting. Dr. Burrell is actively engaged in workforce development. This is evident by her role as a Beta Skills Fellow, co-principal investigator on the NSF-ATE Workforce grant Award # 2100268, North Carolina biotechnology curriculum alignment committee member, and North Carolina InnovATEBIO State Team member. These roles showcase her dedication to increasing the STEM workforce talent pipeline. Additionally, as a member of the Build Back BioBetter (BBB) grant team at Forsyth Tech, she remains at the forefront of initiatives shaping the future of bioscience.
Marni Danhauer
Dean of Community & Workforce Education
Central Community College, NE
With 25 years of experience at Central Community College (CCC), Marni Danhauer currently serves as the Dean of Community and Workforce Education, overseeing programs that promote workforce development and early college programming. Starting as a Grants Accountant at CCC, Ms. Danhauer progressed to Grants Director and Associate Dean of Extended Learning Services, demonstrating her versatility and leadership skills. Prior to her tenure in academia, Ms. Danhauer garnered experience in various industries, including nursing home management, telecommunications, and agriculture, equipping her with a unique perspective on workforce needs across different sectors. Ms. Danhauer holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA) degree, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) with a focus on accounting. In addition, she has completed a graduate certificate in Community College Leadership. Ms. Danhauer currently serves on the South Central Economic Development District and the Educational Service Unit #7 boards. She was previously involved in the Aurora Chamber of Commerce and the Nebraska Propane Board underscoring her dedication to fostering collaboration and progress at both local and statewide levels.
Rolynda Potter
Department Head, Engineering Systems Technology
Director, WACKER Institute & Director, Partnerships and Program Innovation
Chattanooga State Community College, TN
Dr. Lyn Potter is a seasoned professional with a rich academic background and nearly two decades of dedicated service at Chattanooga State Community College. As the Department Head of Engineering Systems Technology and the Director of Partnerships and Program Innovation, Dr. Potter plays a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape by leading the Engineering Systems Technology Department, which boasts five Associate of Applied Science degrees encompassing 10 programs of study. Dr. Potter’s impact extends beyond the classroom, as she oversees five employer apprenticeship programs, three high school programs, and four grants, fostering invaluable connections between academia and industry.
Matthew Swenson
Director of Grants
Green River College, WA
Matthew Swenson is the Director of Grants at Green River College. He has served in this position since 2013 and has more than 25 years of experience in the nonprofit and public sectors as a resource development professional. His areas of focus include STEM education, grant writing and management, program development, and communications. He holds a Master’s degree in Not-for-Profit Leadership from Seattle University and an advanced certificate from the University of Washington. Matthew serves as a volunteer for the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education, the National Science Foundation-funded Mentor-Connect program, and the Mountaineers Club’s youth education programs.