Cedar Crest College is excited to announce the appointment of Beverly Magda, Ph.D., as the Founding Director of the Elaine and John Harmon Center for Leadership in Technology and the Harmon Endowed Professor for Leadership in Technology, effective October 2024.
Dr. Magda has spent much of her career at the intersection of technology and education, advocating for women in tech and inspiring future leaders–a mission that aligns with Cedar Crest’s focus on women’s empowerment. “I’ve always been drawn to Cedar Crest’s mission as a women’s college,” says Magda. “What excites me about the opportunity to lead the Harmon Center is Cedar Crest’s focus on inclusivity and innovation, paired with my dedication to supporting women in STEM. It’s the perfect synergy.”
The Harmon Center for Leadership in Technology, made possible by a generous gift from the estate of alumna Elaine Oberkotter Harmon 59’ and her husband, John, will serve as a transformative space where Cedar Crest students–90% of whom identify as women–can cultivate the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly tech-driven world. By integrating leadership development with technological expertise, the Center will foster a unique environment where students are encouraged to blend technical knowledge with the critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and leadership skills essential in today’s complex world. The Center has established new undergraduate majors in Cybersecurity, Data Science, and Computer Science, alongside Applied AI integration, that will launch in Fall 2025. These new areas of study further solidify Cedar Crest’s role as a pioneer in preparing women for tech-driven careers.
Dr. Magda is a trailblazer in her own right, having navigated her education and profession as one of the few women in her field. Her academic journey–from a bachelor’s in Computer & Information Science and a master’s in Telecommunication Management to a Ph.D. in Engineering Management & Systems Engineering–has laid the groundwork for her impressive leadership roles, including her tenure as Associate Dean and Associate Professor at Georgetown University. At Georgetown, she contributed to key initiatives that underscore her commitment to innovation and the ethical use of technology.
“As a women’s college, we play a vital role in changing the fabric of society, and the launch of the Harmon Center, along with our three new tech programs, reflects this mission,” says President Elizabeth M. Meade, Ph.D. “We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Magda, who brings her extensive experience and passion to lead the college’s expansion of STEM education.”
In her new role, Dr. Magda envisions a future where technology and the liberal arts are seamlessly integrated. “The opportunity to build something new and innovative at Cedar Crest truly excites me,” she shares. “Technology touches everything we do, and melding it with liberal arts is crucial for preparing students to think critically and strategically.”
Dr. Magda’s vision for the next five years includes making the Harmon Center a hub for innovation in the Lehigh Valley, fostering partnerships, and creating programs that empower both students and professionals alike to develop entrepreneurial skills. When speaking about future possibilities for the Harmon Center, she says, “I’d love the Harmon Center to be a resource for women reentering the workforce–a place where they can receive mentorship, skills training, and career development.”
As a passionate advocate and mentor for women in STEM, Dr. Magda’s experience as one of the few women in her computer science and engineering courses drives her commitment to fostering a more inclusive tech landscape. “I know what it feels like to be the only woman in the room, and I want to help change that for the next generation. Education changed my life, and I’m passionate about giving back by mentoring and supporting others as they navigate the field.”
Looking forward, Dr. Magda is particularly eager to return to the classroom, where she’ll have the opportunity to engage directly with students. “My heart has always been in teaching, and I’m excited to work with the next wave of leaders in tech.”
With Magda’s leadership, Cedar Crest College stands poised to lead the charge in empowering women in technology, ensuring that its students are equipped not only to enter the tech world, but to lead it.