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I am an assistant professor in the Counseling and Counseling Psychology Programs where I primarily teach courses on multicultural counseling and counseling theories. I earned my degree from the APA-Accredited Counseling Psychology Program at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

My research interests are in relationship science and intergroup dynamics. These interests converge in my studies exploring the experiences of individuals and partners in interracial relationships and multiracial families. Consistent through my research endeavors is a critical understanding of race. I have developed the concept of racial-ethnic worldview (formerly racial worldview) which I use to understand how individuals’ beliefs about institutional racism, multicultural attitudes, their own ethnic identity impact their experiences in multiracial relationships and perceptions of the intersection of race and relationships and sexuality. My primary methods of inquiry are quantitative, but I also collect qualitative data.

One of the greatest honors of my career has been receiving awards for my mentoring work with students in their own professional development and my own commitment to social justice and diversity efforts. My students and I have explored, the dating and relationship experiences of biracial women and multiracial individuals, reactions to racially explicit kink and BDSM activities, experiences of intimate racism for Asian and Asian American women in interracial relationship, the socialization messages that Black Caribbean women receive from their mothers, and the impact of childhood experiences on the expectations and values regarding relationships for Black individuals, as well as other topics. Ongoing projects include developing a deeper understanding of multiracial family functioning and interdisciplinary collaborations.

I am accepting applications for students who would begin the PhD program in Fall 2027. I encourage potential applicants to reach out to me directly to schedule a meeting to learn about current projects or opportunities.

Please note that any meetings arranged before the official interview days in Spring are not evaluative and are not meant to influence admissions or offer decisions. I will not review any application materials before the application deadline. Please do not send any information that would also be considered as part of an application packet (e.g., CV, Personal Statement, Transcript). I value remaining accessible to help potential students determine whether their research interests fit with my own (especially before paying for application costs), but it is very important to me that no undue favor is given to those who are prone to reach out ahead of sending an application. Please consider any meeting as information for you as you assess your interest in collaborating with me. Strong applicants will have experience conducting research and overlapping (though not necessarily identical) interests with my own. The nature of my work requires a critical perspective on race and intersectionality.