PSU History
I have been a faculty member in Child, Youth, and Family Studies (CYFS) since 2004. In January of 2024 I became the Program Director for the CYFS Program.
Experience
I began working with youth and young adults in community serving organizations in the mid 90’s. My experience with youth, young adults, and families has since expanded to environmental engagement, building inclusive and sustainable community programming, outdoor recreational/educational programs, and access to resources for families.
Academic/Research Interests
My research interests fit into three interconnected areas including youth development and environment, family and community sustainability, and family relationships across the lifespan. I approach my research and community participatory work with interpretive and constructivist methods utilizing critical theory approaches.
My current and ongoing research activities are centered around 1) how siblings navigate and find support through major life transitions, such as the death of a parent and 2) supporting the development and research of community-based programs that are inclusive and sustainable for youth and their families.
My teaching in the CYFS Program is focused most heavily on families, coping, access to resources, and family transitions. The courses I teach include, but are not limited to, Family Theories, Families, Stress, and Change, Grief and Loss in Families, Families in Life Course Perspective, as well as courses throughout the Professional Development curriculum.
Personal Interests
Growing up in the Pacific Northwest has supported and nurtured my love of the outdoors and four seasons. I enjoy gardening, the beach, the rain after a long summer, reading, live music, teaching my dog Juniper random tricks, traveling, baking, and a delicious bowl of homemade popcorn. I come from a large family, so time with my mom, siblings, and their many adult/younger children is always fun and exciting!