Photo by www.ImagesbyNaomi.com

About

Associate Professor, University of Alabama
Department of Communication Studies
College of Communication & Information Sciences

Education

Ph.D   University of Texas at Austin
M.A.    University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
B.S.     University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse

Hometown:  Eagle River, Wisconsin

Research
Interests

Her primary research focuses on exploring the adaptations and modifications in romantic relationship initiation and dissolution practices through emerging technologies and technological adaptations. Currently, she is examining pre-initiation behaviors and rejection processes on Tinder, ghosting as a modernized mediated disengagement, and memorialization in dissolution on Facebook and virtual platforms.

She also studies meaning-making through narration and storytelling processes that inform, reinforce, and reshape relationships during initiation, conflict, and dissolution. She has explored individualistic and relationship sense-making in origin and breakup stories.

Additionally, she intertwines research and pedagogical practices. She investigates small group communication, basic communication course, and communication centers examining their conventional practices and assumptions surrounding public speaking practices, video recording implementation, and assessment strategies. 

Her collaborations include many undergraduate and graduate students as well as colleagues from around the United States and world. She cultivates research perspectives utilizing a variety of methodologies and interdisciplinary approaches to answer scientific inquiries.