With over 10 years of experience designing, implementing and evaluating professional teaching-&-learning programs, Dr. Rayna Friendly serves as Hanna Institute's Curriculum Developer and Lead Trainer. Prior to joining Hanna in 2022, she taught developmental and cognitive psychology courses at San José State University, in the Child and Adolescent Development Department, where she promoted Students-As-Partners and professional development initiatives amongst her colleagues.
While completing her Ph.D. in Developmental Psychology (McMaster University), Rayna conducted multiple research studies examining the influence of people and culture on the development of brain and behavior across childhood. She then completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Teaching & Professional Development (McMaster University), managing the creation and evaluation of inter-institutional virtual and in-person adult learning certificate programs. Rayna develops innovative training initiatives that utilize active learning strategies and teaching technologies to enhance the experience of learners from diverse backgrounds. Her focus is on promoting diversity, equity and inclusion practices, while building community and enhancing culture within and across organizations.