I am an Assistant Professor in Special Education at the University of Arkansas! I earned my Ph.D. in Special Education from Purdue University in 2016. Prior to joining the faculty at U of A, I was an Assistant Professor at the University of North Texas and IES postdoctoral research associate at the Frank Porter Graham Child Development Institute at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill. I also spent four years as a secondary Special Education teacher in Indiana. I have degrees in Special Education and Exercise Science. 

I am currently the Membership and Awards Chair for the Division on Autism and Developmental Disabilities. DADD consists of a great group of people committed to enhancing the quality of life of children, youth, and adults with autism, intellectual disability, and/or other developmental disabilities. Contact me if you want to learn more and check out our website! 

My research focuses on increasing engagement in physical health behaviors and inclusive community participation for transition-age youth and adults with developmental disabilities. Increasing engagement in physical health behaviors, such as physical activity and nutrition, and access to inclusive community participation (e.g., exercising in community fitness centers, pursuing postsecondary education) can enhance opportunities for adults with ASD and ID to lead self-determined, fulfilling, and healthier lives. 

My work addresses these areas by (1) identifying evidence-based practices for youth and adults with ASD and ID, (2) using these practices to promote engagement and independence in physical health behaviors and inclusive community participation, (3) exploring and addressing systemic and personal barriers to inclusive community participation, and (4) working to close the research-to-practice gap by preparing stakeholders to implement those evidence-based practices across home, school, and community settings. 

Selected Publications