FIELDS:
Urban Geography
Cultural Geography
Urban History
Landscape Studies
BIOGRAPHY:
I study the history of American urban landscapes and how this history can inform contemporary urban policy, inequality, property systems, and culture. I am primarily interested in the “ordinary” or “vernacular” built environments of the city. For example, my dissertation research examined the role of alleys in the historical and contemporary urban development of Washington, D.C. I have also researched how iconic but abandoned industrial buildings influence neighborhood identities and redevelopment. In my current research I am exploring the role of accessory dwelling units (ADUs)—sometimes known as backyard homes or mother-in-law apartments—in providing affordable housing. Much of my research concerns the intersections of urban history, historic preservation, and gentrification.
I love teaching the wonderful students in PSU’s Honors College. I teach our core lower-division courses of Global City and Urban Social Science, a qualitative research methods course. At the upper division, I teach seminars on topics like gentrification and reading the urban landscape. I encourage my students to apply what they learn in the classroom to our city of Portland through research projects and exploratory activities. I also enjoy mentoring students on independent research.
SELECTED PUBLICATIONS:
“Comparing Mid-Century Historic Preservation and Urban Renewal through Washington, D.C.’s Alley Dwellings.” Journal of Planning History. (2021)
“Writing out Black history in Washington, D.C.: How historical narratives support a performance of progressiveness in gentrifying urban spaces.” Urban Geography. (2021)
“Exposing the legal and bureaucratic underpinnings of gentrification: Municipal property transfers through alley closures in Washington, D.C.” Environment and Planning C: Politics and Space. (2020).