I am a research psychologist and Assistant Professor of Social and Community Psychology the University of Cincinnati (UC). My research is driven by the questions, “What does a psychology of transformative social change look like?” and “What psychosocial and structural factors facilitate or impede processes of transformative social change?” More specifically, my solidarity-driven research aims to bring visibility to, and work against the inequitable impacts of climate change, socially and geographically. My work draws upon theories within and beyond psychology (e.g., social movement, feminist, and empowerment theories), employs engaged research methods, and aims to advance social justice and environmental sustainability.
Themes in my current research include: (1) Climate and Environmental Justice: Developing community-based, participatory, and arts-based methodologies to promote agency and collaborative action to address environmental problems in local settings; (2) Community Partnerships: Employing community-engaged research methods (e.g., participatory action research) to strengthen community resilience, foster interdisciplinary collaboration, and enhance undergraduate higher education; and (3) STEM Engagement: Applying interdisciplinary and action-based educational approaches to support STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) engagement by marginalized groups.