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 philosophy of mind and cognitive science, applied ethics, philosophy of religion - and topics at the intersections of these areas. 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 prison, the Calvin Prison Initiative at Handlon prison, and South Bend's Center for the Homeless. 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.