My research focuses on the role of out-of-school time recreation (e.g., sport, summer camps, after-school programs) in positive youth development, and on the development of active lifestyles in youth and young adults.
My main interests are around values and experiential learning. I am particularly interested in expeditions and the kinds of experiences that people report to be significant.
The purpose of my research is to understand ways to support people who encounter challenges to experiencing leisure. I teach about inclusive leisure services, leisure philosophy and theories, and research methods.
Associate Professor of Recreation, Park, and Tourism Management and Anthropology
Summary Statement
My research interests focus on biodiversity conservation, sustainable community development, and nature-based tourism. I explore these themes through the lenses of environmental anthropology, the anthropology of tourism, and conservation psychology.
Associate Teaching Professor
Director, RPTM Student Success Center
Summary Statement
My focus is on the support and development of undergraduate students as they develop the career path in RPTM. I oversee advising, engaged learning activities, professional skill development and internship in the department.
My work is committed to the protection of souls of Black youth. I work with communities to understand how the racial identities of Black youth are shaped and the seek to understand how recreation can be leveraged to positively impact this process.
My research focuses on national parks and protected areas, transboundary conservation area management, human and wildlife co-existence, and the impacts of tourism on biodiversity conservation and community development.
Associate Professor
Professor-in-Charge of Graduate Studies
Summary Statement
My research strives to improve understanding of communication strategies aimed at influencing human and environmental health regarding protected areas.
Associate Teaching Professor
Meetings and Event Management Certificate Faculty Coordinator, RPTM
Faculty Senate, Senator
Summary Statement
I intertwine my research on in and out of classroom experiences (mostly, international) with my teaching approach by bringing the out-of-class learning experience into the classroom.
Director, PGA Golf Management Program
Teaching Professor
Undergraduate Professor-in-Charge
Summary Statement
I serve as an Associate Teaching Professor and Director of the PGA Golf Management Program. Our goal is to mentor and educate future alumni and PGA Members. Since 1997, I have mentored over 600 students who are now alumni.
