Why did you get involved with AAR and how is your work aligned?
I first attended AAR as a second-year masters student in theological studies, but when I began doctoral work in education, I didn’t think I would keep going to AAR and would just go to education conferences. But that only lasted a year before I realized that I missed the opportunity to engage with religious studies scholars and I have been attending ever since. The Religion and Public Schools: International Perspectives Unit has been incredibly valuable as a space to share my work and to learn from great people.
What is your area of expertise or field of study?
My expertise is in religious literacy and the intersections of religion and public education in the United States. My research examines how teachers learn about religion in professional development settings. Most recently, I have been looking at assessment and evaluation of religious literacy education programs. As the founder and director of the Religion & Education Collaborative, I’ve developed an interdisciplinary network of educators and scholars working on many different aspects of religion and schooling.
How has AAR been beneficial to you and your career?
Because I did my doctoral work in education (curriculum and instruction), I did not have many classmates or faculty advisors with interests or expertise in religious studies. AAR enabled me to stay connected to the religious studies side of my work and find friends, mentors, and colleagues with similar interests. I also really appreciate the opportunities to learn about religious studies research that I might not otherwise encounter in my day-to-day work.
What book is on your nightstand that you're reading or intend to read in the future?
I have a huge stack of young adult novels that I’m working my way through, partially for a project, but mostly because YA literature is great. Currently, I’m really enjoying Fire Keeper’s Daughter by Angeline Boulley.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I enjoy sewing, cooking, and baking. I tend to alternate between simple, practical projects (like sewing wardrobe basics: skirts, tops, etc.) and ambitious and complicated projects (like trying to make pastry).