Cherisse Gardner is an instructional designer with many years experience in online and distance education. After graduating from Gallaudet University's former School of Educational Technology in 1993 she went on to create the first web-based course to be offered by the University of Maryland University College (UMUC), one of the world's premier virtual universities. As an e-learning professional experienced in the design, development and management of online instructional content, she has returned to Gallaudet University to support its goal of delivering quality online courses and programs to anyone, anywhere.