What is your position in the department/courses you teach?
I am NTTF [Non-Tenure Track Faculty] in the English department, currently teaching Composition.

What brought you to CSU? Where were you before CSU? 
Teaching at CSU is a return to my alma mater. Prior to being here, I taught at Front Range Community College for twelve years. Additionally, I have worked as a distance educator for two community colleges in Wyoming.

What area(s) do you study in the English realm? What drove that passion?
I currently study Classical and Late Antiquity but generally do so through a lens of critical theory. Since my childhood, I have always been passionate about ancient narratives that seek to explore or explain the human condition within the world and universe. I also have a highly analytical nature that finds great value in applying critical theory to texts.

What is some advice you would give to current undergrads/grads/prospective students, etc?
Open yourself to revision. The journey of earning a degree requires a willingness to amend and reinforce one’s beliefs, thought processes, and actions in ways that may initially seem awkward or even threatening. I believe the most valuable learning should often be unsettling and challenge the truths we both hold and seek.

What or who inspires you?
Inspiration certainly comes from many places. I take great inspiration from my family—from my ninety-four year old grandmother to my scared-to-start-kindergarten nephew. I am also continually inspired by the strength and determination that I see in many students of varying backgrounds on our campus.

What did you want to be when you were a kid?
I had aspirations of being in theatre and music.

What is your favorite word and why?
What a challenging question. Today, my favorite word is “ebullient” because I am excited to teach!

Sometimes students think professors don’t have a life outside the department. What do you like to do when you’re not working?
I read books like Frank Zappa smoked cigarettes—a lot. I play multiple musical instruments and am lucky to have a dedicated room in my home to make music. I am an avid gardener who takes great joy in growing and consuming my own produce, and I would one day like to be certified as a Master Gardner. Like many Coloradoans, I also love hiking, biking, longboarding and camping.