Cynthia Gardner

Cynthia A. Gardner is a geologist and volcanologist noted for her expertise on Mount St. Helens. She was the acting Scientist-in-Charge (SIC) of the Cascades Volcano Observatory during the 2004 volcanic reawakening at Mount St. Helens, and officially served as SIC from 2005 to 2010—the first female to fill the role. She has continued to be regarded as an expert on volcanology in the Cascade Range.

A 1977 graduate of the University of Vermont, Gardner joined the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in 1980, and worked out of their office in Denver, Colorado. She was transferred to the USGS Cascades Volcano Observatory in 1897, and is currently a USGS emeritus scientist.

Along with Kate Allstadt, Gardner is a leader of the GeoGirls program, which helps young girls connect with geology by introducing them to experienced women geologists who lead them on educational activities.