RESEARCH
Exploring the intersections between cultural identities and health inequities to enhance our communities' well- being.TEACHING
Fostering academic excellence using interdisciplinary resources and creating inclusive learning environments.SERVICE
Advancing relationships and building bridges drawing up my knowledge, skills and education privileges.Research Interest Areas
Drawing from training in human development, women's studies and ethnic studies, my research examines the ways in which culture informs individuals' sexual health decision making processes and outcomes. With a particular focus on the relevance of gender and ethnic/ racial identity development, I have examined intimate partner violence (IPV), sexually transmitted infections (e.g. HPV and HIV/ AIDS), and sexual messaging in popular culture using non- deficit approaches. The results from these works have been disseminated in both academic and community settings.
I strive to ignite students' interests in learning these issues by applying it to their "real life" experiences. This helps students recognize the need to become informed sufficiently so that they can use their education to improve the world they live in. Toward this end, I encourage students to take advantage of research training, study abroad programs, and service learning opportunities to enhance their academic journey. I seek to expand students’ critical skills set so that they engage in creative problem solving.