I am pursuing a Ph.D. in the Department of Geography at UW-Madison, with a Ph.D. minor in Science and Technology Studies (STS). My scholarship in critical cartography and geographic information systems (GIS) bridges the practices of mapping with a theoretical critique informed by human geography and science studies. I investigate the social and geographical context of mapping and the constitutive role of representation in creating place and identity. I am particularly interested in how web-based, interactive maps broaden possibilities for democratic, participatory mapping.
I was born in Durango, Colorado in 1977 and enjoyed an active childhood skiing, hiking, mountain biking, and playing in the nearby San Juan Mountains. 
I attended Fort Lewis College, also in Durango, as an undergraduate and studied philosophy and political science. I also gained from a year of study in Sweden through a study abroad program. After graduation I traveled through Guatemala and Chiapas, Mexico, studying Spanish. I completed a Masters degree in Education in 2004 from the University of Colorado at Boulder, where I also gained research experience working with an interdisplinary team of social science scholars.
My interests in new media and information technology drew me into studying GIS and mapping, which eventually brought me to study geography at UW-Madison.
Click here for my PDF Curriculum Vitae.
