Education
M.A., University of Nebraska at Omaha, Sociology, 2004
B.A., University of Iowa, Sociology, 1997
Schools
Departments
Biography
How did you discover Western?
Desire to teach at a liberal arts college in a mountain community. I grew up in a small community in rural Iowa, and Gunnison offers a similar sense of community, but with mountains. Upon graduating from Colorado State University, I wanted to stay in Colorado, and Western Colorado University offered an opportunity to do so.
What are some of the highlights of your career?
- 2017 Constance Coiner Award for Best Dissertation, Working Class Studies Association (WCSA)
- 2016 Young Scholars and Activists Initiative Award, Working Class Studies Association (WCSA)
- 2014 New Generation Award, United Association of Labor Educators (UALE)
- Having my research featured by National Public Radio’s “This American Life: Our Town” (Broadcast No. 632)
What most excites you about your field?
The continuous opportunity to explore our ever-changing world. The discipline of Sociology allows me to explore a multitude of social phenomena from a number of different perspectives. It never gets old.
What is your favorite thing about the Gunnison Valley?
The community and the outdoors.