Biography

Growing up near the Quad Cities I found myself interested in creating and the arts, as well as education. There was no great leap from childhood interests into my major of art education at the University of Northern Iowa. I began teaching right out of college, mostly in elementary art with a lovely one-year stint in middle school. In 2006 I graduated with my masters in education from Viterbo University where my studies focused on connections between art and social consciousness. I enjoy the pursuit of knowledge and growing both personally and professionally. In 2009 I began my studies at the University of Iowa as a PhD. candidate in art education.  

My research interests include student social consciousness, street art, psychogeography, culture jamming , symbolic interaction theory, and third place pedagogy. I make time for my artistic endeavors and enjoy seeing and learning about new media and methods. My artwork in greatly influenced by what my interests are at the moment. Themes that reoccur often are street art, spatial awareness, and education. I consider myself a multi-media artist with emphasis in encaustic painting. I seize opportunities to go outdoors and to travel and try to incorporate as much art, art and cultural history, and new encounters as I can into each adventure. I enjoy challenging myself, taking on leadership roles, and continuing to expand my experiences within the education profession.

My free time is spent with my husband Steve, my friends, my dogs Bruno & Karma, and my cat Lucy.