I am a PhD student in the department of Political Science at UCR. My major subfields are Mass Political Behavior and American Politics. My research interests center around race, ethnicity, gender and identity politics, political psychology, and inequality. I especially focus on the perception of women as political candidates. I am also a member of the Gender Lab in the Political Science department at UCR. My recent publication in the Journal of Policy and Politics is on Stand Your Ground Laws and the influence of the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). I have experience teaching American Politics, Constitutional Law, and World Politics. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and served as President of the International Honor’s Society in Psychology (Psi Chi) and as Philanthropy Chair at Sonoma State University. 

My goals were always to pursue graduate research on inequality, informed by my experiences and relationships growing up. For five years I worked full time in the corporate sector, while also working as a Research Assistant for a Stereotyping and Emotions Laboratory at San Diego State University. I have experience working on campaigns, and doing social media coordination for a former Senator. These experiences helped inform my decision to pursue a career in academia where I am able to conduct research that is relevant to our political world. As a PhD student and Research Assistant for CSI, I am excited about shifting the narrative in the Inland Empire to one of opportunity and innovation for marginalized communities. 

At CSI, I am a Qualitative Research Assistant. Currently I am assisting on projects including the State of Black Workers in the Inland Empire, the impact of COVID-19 on the non-profit sector, and the impact of COVID-19 on Riverside & San Bernardino county agencies.

I am inspired by the leadership and collaboration our community partners demonstrate during times of crisis. There have been a lot of useful resources shared in our community to help us stay connected virtually and continue to have a collective impact. I am continually inspired by the regular conversations, and the development of initiatives that prioritize those individuals who are most at-risk in the community. The dialogue and activism that takes place in the Inland Empire reflects the important diversity and needs of our region.