No matter if it is running rugged trails, cycling endless gravel roads, or simply soaking in the quiet beauty of open landscapes-- I LOVE the outdoors. Born and raised in Northwest Arkansas, my passion for adventure was sparked on the red dirt roads of Oklahoma, where I spent years (and several thousand miles) exploring the Great Plains and avoiding writing my dissertation.

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Yet, my love of nature isn’t just about the miles—it's about connection! I believe the outdoors should be a welcoming space for all and am dedicated to building inclusive outdoor communities. I started the All Faces and Paces Welcome blog to share stories that inspire others to find joy and belonging in movement.

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My passion for improving communities also bleeds into my professional life, too. As a developmental psychologist, my research focuses on the social determinants of health. Specifically, my work questions how factors like community, environment, and access to resources shape well-being. This research is driven by a deep desire to understand these influences and find ways to improve the health of individuals and communities alike.