Biography
I received my B.A. (2005), M.A. (2007), and Ph.D. (2012) in Communication from the University of Arizona. When I am not teaching or researching, I enjoy spending time with my family. We love sunshine, mountains, music, and the San Marcos River.
Research Interests
I am a relationship scientist who examines interpersonal communication processes, including social support, social skills, and social influence, as they relate to challenging transitions and health issues in close relationships. My work has been featured in prominent academic journals and media outlets, and through my community service, it has extended beyond academia to inform patient experience policies and practices. I teach a variety of undergraduate and graduate courses in interpersonal, relational, family, and health communication, as well as communication theory and quantitative methods.
Teaching Interests
My teaching philosophy is fairly simple: I aspire to be the kind of teacher from whom I would want to learn. I try to be organized, open-minded, and responsive, while maintaining a balance of challenge and support. I often seek and integrate student feedback into my teaching, which helps me understand my students’ perspectives and enables my growth as an instructor. I believe that effective teaching centers on connection: connecting to students; connecting ideas; and connecting material to lived experiences and the community.