About Me

30 Years of Teaching Experience in Higher Education

I've taught hundreds of students from Tennessee high schools, alongside students from all over the world. I know what it takes to make our graduates competitive and thrive in their future educational lives, whether that is in a profession or a trade. I've trained other teachers, at both the K-12 and college levels. And I've learned to navigate huge bureaucracies to get things done.

I've supported initiatives for better pay for teachers, inclusion and equity for students, and free speech.

I have a particular commitment to disability inclusion. I was one of the founding co-chairs of the Chancellor's Commission for Disability at UT and one of the founders of the Disability Caucus at the Unitarian Universalist General Assembly (the annual convention of my church). I want to make sure all students can thrive in our schools. And I've learned how to listen and work with others to get changes made. 

I've been a leader on UT campus; in addition to chairing a Chancellor's Commission, I've been on the Faculty Senate Executive Team for 9 years as the Communication Officer. I was the first non-tenure track person elected to this position. 

I've been a leader in my church: I've served twice as the board president of my congregation. I've worked with my church's regional staff to train leaders and facilitate board workshops for other congregations. I was the Dean of the Southeastern Unitarian Universalist Leadership Experience, a week-long intensive summer training. Most recently, I have been on the Article II Study Commission, for the national Unitarian Universalist Association. We have proposed major changes to our church's national covenant and statement of mission. In the process, we talked to thousands of church members across the country to gain their perspectives. I know how to manage change in large organizations and how to handle challenging situations.