Institute for Families in Society

(Ph.D., Middle Tennessee State University; MS, Biology, Alabama A&M University)

I received my Ph.D. from Middle Tennessee State University's Department of Health and Human Performance. I also hold a Master of Science in Biology from Alabama A&M University. I have always had an interest in racial health inequities, but as a doctoral student I developed a passion for maternal and child health. My dissertation focused on the barriers and facilitators which influence breastfeeding behaviors of Black women and birthing people in Tennessee.

Upon completing my doctorate, I accepted a postdoctoral fellowship at Tulane University’s Center of Excellence in Maternal and Child Health. My research centered around exploring social and structural determinants impacting maternal and child health racial inequities and Black breastfeeding behaviors. I intend to build a career as an applied researcher using my work and platform to increase health equity for underserved populations. I am excited to join the Maternal and Child Health team as a mixed methods health scientist.

When I am not working, I enjoy traveling, reading, trying new restaurants, and spending time with my friends and family.