Cyndi Maxey, MA, CSP, is a seasoned professional speaker and co-author of five books; the latest is Speak Up! A Woman's Guide to Presenting Like a Pro (St. Martin's Press 2008). In addition to teaching public speaking and communication in Loyola's SCPS program, Cyndi has owned Maxey Creative Inc. since 1989, a consulting firm specializing in communication that drives profitable performance. She has consulted, coached, and spoken extensively (on average 75-90 times a year) with organizations who want to boost influence and presentations skills.

Cyndi is one of fewer than 185 women internationally to hold the Certified Speaking Professional (CSP) designation, the National Speakers Association's highest earned designation recognizing professional excellence. She is a past President of National Speakers Association - Illinois Chapter and has served on the Boards of the Chicago Chapter of the American Society of Training and Development and the Chicago Chapter National Association of Women Business Owners.

She has recently been elected as the 2009 NSA-Illinois Humanitarian of the Year, an award given for service to others while working full time as a speaking professional.