Lindsey Swagerty, a doctoral candidate in curriculum and instruction focusing on elementary STEM education at the University of Arkansas, was presented the Donald Maley Spirit of Excellence Outstanding Graduate Student award.

Swagerty directs the Education Renewal Zone in the College of Education and Health Professions.

This award is named for Donald Maley, the founder of the Foundation for Technology and Engineering Educators and one of the profession's Distinguished Fellows. The award recognizes excellence in graduate level scholarship and leadership potential.

Swagerty was a participant in the 2015-2016 class of the 21st Century Leadership Academy of the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association. She was one of six young professionals in the United States chosen for the honor.

As a participant of the 21st Century Leadership Academy, she attended several events and meetings at annual conferences of the association, traveled to Washington to take part in a legislative action session, and participated in monthly online sessions of the leadership academy. The program was designed to create tomorrow's most successful and respected technology and engineering leaders, consultants and strategic thinkers. It incorporates knowledge and experiences from education leaders and other experts using practical and innovative advice on how leaders make a difference.