I am an Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychological Science at Kennesaw State University (KSU) and an affiliated faculty member in the School of Conflict Management, Peacebuilding, and Development.
I lead the Social Perceptions and Intergroup Relations Lab, where our research explores how people perceive different social groups and how these perceptions shape judgments and behaviors. Our work emphasizes diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, and often examines the impact of white supremacy systems in the United States on marginalized communities.
Before joining KSU, I earned my Ph.D. in social psychology at Tulane University, where I worked with Dr. Laurie O’Brien. I also completed my M.S. and B.S. at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, collaborating with Dr. Anca Miron in the Social Psychology Lab and Dr. Ashley Thompson in the Sexuality and Relationship Science Lab.
Outside of work, I live in Atlanta and enjoy exploring local restaurants and coffee shops, getting lost in a good book, and making jewelry. I’m a proud Wisconsinite—and I’ve been told my Midwestern accent is hard to miss (Ope!).
I am a feminist and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) scholar. My research focuses on understanding perceptions of social norms and intergroup relations. Broadly, I am interested in how various social identities and contextual factors shape the way people perceive prejudiced behaviors and acts of discrimination. I also study how recent political climates influence social interactions and intergroup relationships.
What factors influence when people label behaviors as sexual harassment
How meta-stereotypes affect intergroup interactions
Why people perceive certain political group members differently, and how these perceptions shape political behaviors
When social psychology-based interventions effectively improve a sense of belonging among college students from marginalized groups
I am deeply committed to open science, transparent research practices, and strong statistical methods. You can find my pre-registrations and study materials on my OSF page. In addition to my academic work, I have served as a statistical consultant for local, national, and international organizations for over ten years.
