Environmental factors play key roles in the physical, mental, and social health of communities. Green spaces can improve mental and physical health, but there are disparities in access. My program seeks to better understand and facilitate landscapes that are equitable, just, and sustainable through design. By utilizing design as an intervention, public health can better address the health challenges that communities face.

With the Herbert College of Agriculture, I was able to visit Guatemala in spring of 2022. On a return trip to Guatemala, I also interned with Niños del Lago. I helped develop nutrition and agriculture lessons.

I am currently a research assistant in Dr. Laurie Meschke’s RPE lab here at UTK. Our research is focused on sexual violence prevention. Previously, I interned at the University of Tennessee Gardens. I developed an understanding of garden maintenance and management.

In my free time, I am a foster care advocate because of my experiences in the system. I’m also big into reading, sketching, and collecting fountain pens. I love aquariums and have a fish named Toothless.