Research

My primary research agenda focuses on how peoples’ identities affect their political behaviors and opinions. I am particularly interested in exploring how identities intersect and interact with one another and how social identities impact polarization and inequality. 

Some common themes in my work are the reciprocal influence of politics and identities, how churches and other linkage institutions mobilize members for political action, the politicization of what has traditionally been nonpolitical, and how laws and policies affect life outcomes. I enjoy working collaboratively with students on political science research.

In addition to my substantive research, I am also engaged in the scholarship of teaching and learning. Within this field, I focus on student motivation, active learning techniques, and promoting critical thinking.

A list of my publications and ongoing research projects is available on my curriculum vitae.