I am an Assistant Professor in the Department of Mass Communication at Towson University in Towson, MD. In addition to teaching courses in advertising and public relations, I conduct quantitative and qualitative research investigating how human cognition and perception impact advertising effectiveness. I have a strong interest in new and emerging forms of social media marketing, digital advertising strategies, and media ethics. Previously, I received my Ph.D. in Media Research and Practice with specialization in Strategic Communication from the University of Colorado Boulder (Boulder, CO). I also hold an M.A. in Psychological Research from California State University, Long Beach (Long Beach, CA) and a B.A. in Psychology and English Literature from the University of New Mexico (Albuquerque, NM).