Galina Madjaroff Reitz

Principal Lecturer; Director, MS Human-Computer Interaction

BIO

Dr. Reitz is a strategic leader in higher education with over two decades of experience driving innovation, advancing digital accessibility, and fostering inclusive student engagement. She currently serves as Director of the Master’s in Human-Computer Interaction (HCIM) program at the University of Maryland and as Associate Director for Higher Education with the Maryland Initiative for Digital Accessibility (MIDA). Previously, she led the Information Science program at the Universities at Shady Grove, where she achieved record enrollment growth and launched new interdisciplinary minors. Dr. Reitz holds a PhD in Human-Centered Computing, with a research agenda focused on accessible interface design for individuals with disabilities, particularly in voice-based technologies. A passionate educator and mentor, she has developed courses in patient-centered design and inclusive methods. Her work with MIDA includes experiential learning initiatives like design sprints and accessibility hackathons. Her current research explores the development of AI-driven agents to assist individuals with Parkinson’s disease in completing physical therapy, advancing accessible health technologies. Her career reflects a deep commitment to equity, mentorship, and the transformative power of education.

Education

Ph.D., Information Systems, Human Centered Computing, UMBC
M.A., Management of Aging Services, UMBC
B.A., Psychology, Biology, Creative writing, UMBC