Researcher specializing in Sociology, Criminology, and Mental Health related topics.
I hold a M.S. obtained from the University of Texas at Dallas (UTD) School of Economic, Policy, and Political Sciences. Since 2017, I have worked at the Meadows Mental Health Policy Institute where I support work across the state of Texas aimed at reducing unnecessary justice involvement for persons living with behavioral healthcare needs. My role on the Smart Justice team requires that I prepare legislative white papers, provide technical assistance materials (e.g. presentations, standard operating procedures, various forms), and conduct qualitative data collection and analysis.
While in attending UTD, I actively participated in student organizations and worked in various departments at the university. As a Research Assistant in the Criminology Department, I collected qualitative data to contribute to the first complete and standardized database of school shootings in the United States. I simultaneously served as President of both the Black Student Alliance and UTD’s chapter of the National Criminal Justice Honor Society (Alpha Phi Sigma).