I earned my BA in English from the University of Iowa in 2006 and am now thrilled to return as a Visiting Assistant Professor. My teaching career has spanned roles at Northern Illinois University, Tippie Business College, and Kirkwood Community College, where I've focused on fostering critical thinking and a lifelong love of learning through literature. I hold a master’s degree from the University of Northern Iowa, where my thesis explored the theme of the scapegoated mother figure in the works of William Faulkner and Toni Morrison. My PhD in English from Northern Illinois University focused on Post-Civil War American Literature and the history and pedagogy of Rhetoric/Composition. My dissertation examined the impact of alcohol in American literature as a mediator of race, gender, and class.

In my current role teaching "ENGL-1200 The Interpretation of Literature: Diverse Voices in Classic and Contemporary Texts" at the University of Iowa, I integrate an understanding of the art and elements of each literary genre with a broader examination of themes like race, class, gender, memory, and identity. This approach helps students see literature not only as a craft but also as a powerful means of instilling empathy for others. My teaching philosophy centers on helping students appreciate how literature can enrich their lives and transform them into more empathetic global citizens, fostering a lasting appreciation for diverse human perspectives and compassion for those perceived as "different."