Meet Our Team

Director

Feng is a former high school physics teacher and has a Ph.D. in science education. He is now the Director of the Office of Innovation for Education at the University of Arkansas, where he leads research and initiatives that support innovative educational practices in Arkansas schools. Outside of work, he enjoys reading and spending time with his family.

Assistant Director of Innovation

With 25 years of experience across diverse educational settings, Crystal brings a wealth of knowledge to her role as Assistant Director of Innovation. A former high school teacher and curriculum & instruction director, she is also a Cognitive Coaching℠ Training Associate, yoga instructor, and passionate world traveler. Beyond her professional roles, she is a proud mom and grandmom, dedicated to lifelong learning and growth.

Assistant Director of Research and Programming

After serving in the U.S. Marine Corps for over 6.5 years, Austin earned his B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. in experimental/social psychology from the University of Arkansas. Prior to OIE, he worked in industry as a behavioral research scientist, focusing on workplace well-being. Outside of work, Austin combines his passions for both creative and analytical thinking by playing guitar and concocting culinary delights, and raising “two of the coolest young scientists imaginable.”

Senior Software Programmer

Mr. Anand has a Masters’ degree in Computer Science from the University of Arkansas and a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Bangalore University, India. Mr. Anand enjoys watching and playing cricket, traveling, classic cars and spending time with his wife and son.

SPDG Program Advisor

Nick is one of the newest members of the OIE team as the Program Advisor for the State Personnel Development Grant. Prior to joining OIE, Nick taught high school communications, speech and debate, as well as science in both Arkansas and Louisiana. When he isn’t working he enjoys time with his dogs and never passes up a chance to get in some good karaoke.

Data Quality Programmer/Analyst

Thad has over 20 years working in higher education setting. He worked with higher education data prior to joining OIE. When not at work, he enjoys spending time with family and reading.

Senior Programmer/Analyst

Erin earned her M.S. in statistics at the University of Arkansas and has worked in public health as well as education. She works remotely from Austin, TX but loves to travel periodically to work with her colleagues in person in beautiful Fayetteville, AR. When not working she enjoys reading fiction and spending time with family.

Learning Design and Innovation Leader

Kelly Hankins has worked as a teacher, interventionist, literacy specialist, principal, and district administrator. The focus she has maintained throughout is thinking outside the box while staying student centered. Kelly earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Harding University. She enjoys riding horses, farming, fishing, and spending time with family when she’s not working.

Senior Programmer/Analyst

Deena previously worked with financial data after receiving her M.S. in Finance from the University of Tulsa. She currently enjoys working with educational data. When not at work, she loves hiking and spending time with family.

Project and Content Integrator

Natalie is a former elementary educator turned project and design guru. She has a Master of Arts in Teaching and a Master of Education in Educational Leadership degree from the University of Arkansas. In her free time, she enjoys indulging in good coffee and food, organizing, vacationing at the beach, and spending time with her family.

Project Manager, CCFAL

Prior to joining OIE, Chrissy worked as an elementary teacher in the Oklahoma public school system. When she is not calling the Hogs, Chrissy can be found with her family fishing, traveling, and creating their own adventures.

Office Manager

Jennifer is the first point of contact for the office. She enjoys traveling and spending time with her family.

Advisor

Denise started as a biologist turned outdoor educator and was coaxed into the classroom during a teacher shortage. She moved from the classroom to curriculum, instruction, assessment and accountability before earning her Ph.D. in Education Statistics and Research Methods and founding OIE. She loves skiing, relaxing by the pool or ocean, and spending time with family.

Advisor

Marsha has worked as a former teacher, special education director, and elementary principal. Her best day is working with Schools of Innovation and seeing kids succeed. You will find Marsha rooting for the Razorbacks and finding anything fun to do outdoors.