About

I am a social scientist with expertise and interest in public health, policy and law, medical and legal anthropology, substance use, housing, mental health, and care ethics. I have authored or co-authored 45+ studies in peer-reviewed journals, including the American Journal of Public Health, American Journal of Preventive Medicine, Medical Anthropology, Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, Addictive Behaviors, Social Psychiatry and Psychiatric Epidemiology, and International Journal of Adolescence and Youth. I have presented my work at international, national, and regional academic conferences and have received numerous awards and fellowships, including the American Public Health Association (APHA) Law Section Best Abstract Award in 2025. At Penn State University, I am involved in numerous research projects focused on state policies, their broader implications for public health, and their specific impacts on population health outcomes.

As a university lecturer, I have five years of experience creating and instructing courses in a variety of contexts to students of diverse backgrounds. I have taught introductory and upper-level courses and have developed considerable skills in curriculum development and instructional design.

Students and colleagues alike know me for my approachability, work ethic, integrity, and thought-provoking discussions.