Background

Biography

I am an environmental physiologist with a particular interest in how hormones support behavior and physiology in free-living birds, both within the context of their natural life-history cycle and life-history strategy. In past research projects, I have investigated the role of the stress hormone corticosterone in the support of avian migration. I have also examined the endocrinological underpinnings of territorial aggression, memory formation, and anxiogenic behavior in woodland passerines.

Education

• PhD, Zoology, Department of Biology, University of Washington, 2003. Advisors: Drs. John Wingfield and Marilyn Ramenofsky. Thesis title: The role of baseline corticosterone in the regulation of migration
• B.S., Biology with Distinction, Department of Biology, University of Michigan - Ann Arbor, 1996.

Teaching

Currently, I serve as an Instructor of undergraduate and graduate-level courses, both on campus and in Oregon State’s Ecampus distance education program. I teach subjects ranging from introductory biology to upper-division genetics, writing in the life sciences, and physiology. Given my past research, I especially enjoy helping students explore the diverse physiological adaptations that animals employ to survive and reproduce in their natural habitats.

I am committed to the support of student success, striving to help students achieve long-term, meaningful learning through active participation, reflection, project-based learning, and a positive/inclusive emotional climate. I am a strong proponent of self-regulated learning and provide students with frequent opportunities to monitor their understanding/progress. Students who have taken my courses describe them as rigorous and challenging, but appreciate the clarity of learning objectives, the ample opportunities for peer/instructor interactions, and the chance for experiential learning and self-regulation. It has been a privilege and honor to teach students at Oregon State University over my professional career.

Courses Taught

• BI 222 – Principles of Biology
• BI 311 – Genetics (Ecampus)
• BI 319 – Theory, Practice and Discourse in the Life Sciences (WIC course; Ecampus and On Campus)
• Z 423 – Environmental Physiology (Ecampus)

Awards

• Co-recipient of Student Learning and Success Teamwork Award, Faculty Recognition and Awards Committee, Oregon State University. 2022.
• Quality Matters certification for Ecampus course design
  • BI 319 – Theory, Practice and Discourse in the Life Sciences. 2022.
  • BI 311 – Genetics. 2018.
  • Z 423 – Environmental Physiology. 2016
• Nominated: Ecampus Excellence in Online Teaching and Student Engagement Award. 2021