I am currently an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Hope College. Before that, I earned my Ph.D. in philosophy as well as my B.A. in philosophy and theology from the University of Notre Dame. In my research, I focus primarily on topics in applied ethics - specifically bioethics & technology ethics - as well as in philosophy of mind & cognitive science. Much of this research is multi-disciplinary and integrally involves my undergraduate research students! See more about my research and public philosophy & speaking.

 

I am also passionate about teaching philosophy, both inside and outside of traditional university settings - and about increasing community engagement in philosophy. In addition to community-engaged courses at Notre Dame and Hope College - I have also taught courses through the Moreau College Initiative at Westville Correctional Facility, the Calvin Prison Initiative at Handlon Correctional Facility, and South Bend's Center for the Homeless. I am also currently teaching in Hope-Western Prison Educational Program at Muskegon Correctional Facility. See more about my teaching and community engagement in philosophy.

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Outside of philosophy, I am a visual artist and actively involved in my Grand Rapids community - including the local branch of the National Alliance for Mental Illness (NAMI). I also serve as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for children in the foster care system in Kent County.