Welcome

I am the Executive Director of Smithsonian STARS, an outreach initiative led by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory with funding from generous donors. The goal of this program is to connect classrooms to the cosmos. We will deliver telescopes, instructional materials, and a community of practice to rural schools across the country to increase access to STEM education.

Previously, I was the Science Communications and Engagement branch manager in the Office of Public Outreach (OPO) at the Space Telescope Science Institute and a co-investigator on the NASA’s Universe of Learning program, an Astrophysics-themed STEM learning program funded through the NASA Science Mission Directorate’s Science Activation Collective.

A planetary scientist by training, during my research career, I studied aqueous geochemistry and lava-ice interactions related to Mars. Throughout my education and career, I strive to advance my experiences and broadening my skills. It comes down to the fact that I love to learn and grow! On a personal note, I am a huge fan of the theater, traveling, scuba diving, and photography.

Outreach

I love sharing science and space with students and the public, which has led me to a career in science engagement. I am currently the Executive Director of the Smithsonian STARS program.

Research

My research experience can be broadly encompassed within the planetary geology field, with my research focusing on Mars (first the geochemistry, then morphology of lava-ice interactions.

personal

As a lifelong learner, I love to try new things and embrace opportunities to explore new areas. A few of my favorite hobbies are theater, travel, scuba diving, and photography.