I am an Assistant Professor at Michigan State University’s Department of Media & Information, where I direct the Rural Computing Research Consortium. At MSU, I am a Research Fellow at the Quello Center for Media & Information Policy and Core Faculty at the Center for Gender in Global Context.

My research is in the areas of rural computing, science and technology studies (STS), computer supported cooperative work (CSCW), and rural studies. My research primarily revolves around the role of technology in rural economic development. Some current projects in this area focus on: the role of the high-tech economy and entrepreneurship in development activities; the adoption and use of information and communication technology in rural organizations for collaboration and to address resource disparities; and the impact of technological innovation in rural communities and people. I also do research on the use and design of social technologies for community building among LGBTQ people living in rural areas. I received my PhD in 2020 from the University of Michigan School of Information, where I was advised by Silvia Lindtner and Tiffany Veinot.

At the Department of Media & Information, I teach classes on User Experience design and research, as well as the role of technology in development.

Prospective students

I am looking for a PhD student (to start Fall 2022) interested in researching the role of technology in the rural United States. If you are interested in ethnographic, community-based, and/or design research on technological advancement in rural economic development, civic/municipal settings, or social contexts, please contact me to set up a time to discuss your research interests. See the Information & Media PhD website for more information about our interdisciplinary program at MSU.

If you are an undergraduate student at MSU interested in working with me on any projects described above, feel free to contact me. Include your interests, degree or major, and resume or CV.