Biography

I grew up in Lawrence, KS, developing an interest in politics based on my parents’ own involvement with local politics. It was no surprise, then, that I chose to attend George Washington University in the nation’s capitol, where I received my Bachelor’s Degree.

While at GW, I interned on Capitol Hill with advocacy groups and on political campaigns. Upon graduating, I spent several years working in campaign politics as a researcher. My experience working in campaign politics motivated me to better understand the dynamics of vote choice and election outcomes, spurring me to begin my doctoral studies at the University of Maryland.

Beginning in 2013, I worked as a teaching and research assistant with the Department of Government and Politics at UMD. Under the guidance of Michael Hanmer, Antoine Banks, Lilliana Mason, Sarah Croco, and Frederick Conrad, I examined the role perceptions of empathy play in voting decisions and election outcomes. Mike Hanmer, in particular, has been instrumental in mentoring me on multiple research projects and has been a constant friend and advocate. Upon completing my Ph.D. in 2019, I spent several years as a postdoc at both UNC Charlotte and Stanford before moving back to the DC area to be an assistant professor at Mary Washington.

When I’m not working, I can be found wandering the streets in search of great places to eat. I’m also a runner and an avid Jayhawk basketball fan (ROCK CHALK!).