Instructional Technologist

M.A. in Educational Technology Leadership, The George Washington University

Susan Pennestri first came to CNDLS in 2003 and served as Language Learning Lab Director at the LLT Center. In that role, she managed the Center’s facilities, including the language lab and technology classroom, and assisted foreign language faculty and students integrate technology into their teaching, learning and research. In her current role as Instructional Technologist, Susan has extended her responsibilities to provide technical and pedagogical support to faculty across the disciplines on matters relating to instructional technology. Her current projects include the use of clickers, lecture capture, synchronous communication, and data visualization and mapping tools. She also keeps abreast of new and emerging technologies and provides input on their potential applications in teaching and learning.

In addition, Susan is responsible for providing University-wide Blackboard Course Management System support services to faculty, staff, and students. She handles user requests, conducts training classes, assists with upgrades, and collaborates with other members on the Blackboard support team in strategic planning of the Georgetown Blackboard initiative.

Outside of work, Susan enjoys running, shoe shopping, wine and cheese, and traveling to new places.


CNDLS Executive Committee

  • Randall Bass, Ph.D.
    Executive Director and Assistant Provost for Teaching and Learning Initiatives,
    Associate Professor, Department of English
  • Edward Maloney, Ph.D.
    Managing Director and Director of Research and Learning Technologies,
    Visiting Professor, Department of English
  • John Rakestraw, Ph.D.
    Director of Faculty Programs,
    Professorial Lecturer, Department of Philosophy
  • Janet Russell, Ph.D.
    Director for Science Programs and Instructional Technology

CNDLS Staff

CNDLS Graduate Associates

CNDLS' Graduate Student Associates (GAs) share our staff's enthusiasm for all that fosters the scholarship of teaching and learning. Every Graduate Associate is an integral part of the CNDLS team and participates fully in the atmosphere of open communication, teamwork, and sharing of knowledge and ideas. GAs dedicate most of their time to working closely with Georgetown University faculty members and students on academic and professional projects; they also participate in a variety of CNDLS and university-wide projects and events.

CNDLS Undergraduate Assistants