I'm a graduate of the anthropology program at Grand Valley State University. Ethnographic research methods have been my way of connecting with my community, and the various communities that exist around me. Additionally, my certification in applied anthropology has arranged me with a research toolkit with which to create ideal and pragmatic solutions for humans in the world. My career and life focus is human-centered, drawing my vitality from the nuance and depth of perspective. In pursuit of this paramount interest, I have sought to create research experiences that reflect it. To me, this means undertaking research oriented to tangible community solutions. I've conducted qualitative research for the Momentum Center, a nonprofit in Grand Haven, Michigan in order to measure program efficacy and to improve the accessibility of their messaging. Similarly, I have undertaken research projects at Grand Valley State in service to a variety of local offices, such as the Department and of Alcohol and other Drugs to enhance student relations. I've recently finished an ethnographic article about independently conducted multi-sited research on connections between religious exemplar narratives and political beliefs among Grand Rapids church congregations. All of my research is focused on discovering, then answering a question for the sake of creating positive impacts. I love to see a problem solved, and people flourishing. I consider this to be the truest expression of my professional identity.