In first grade, when I memorized the names of all the presidents and their birth and death dates, my parents had a suspicion that I might have an interest in politics. Although my interests have extended to international relations, urban planning and business, my early interest in American politics proved prophetic. Now I enjoy teaching and and conducting research on public policy, political behavior, public opinion, state politics, and local politics that is compelling to academics, legislators, and the public. I am particularly interested in the ways that sense of place can influence political behavior and how people’s feelings affect public policy. At Wilson, I teach students how to express their views persuasively and equip them with the tools to promote societal change through governance and public policy.