Where are you from?
I am originally from Boise, Idaho, but have lived in Utah a good part of my life at this point.
What and where have you studied?
I received a PhD at Utah State in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis on literacy.
Where have you previously worked?
I started my teaching career in Utah public schools where I taught for 10 years. I then taught at Utah State University for 10 years and Utah Valley University for about 10 years before coming to Brigham Young University.
What is your current job title? Please describe what you do in that position.
My current job title is Associate Professor, I am assigned to teach literacy courses.
What accomplishment are you most proud of?
I am most proud of my kids, for sure. They are a joy and source of happiness in my life.
What was the first career you dreamed of having as a kid?
The first job I remember wanting was wrapping gifts at a department store at Christmastime. I never got that job, but I am indeed quite a good gift wrapper!
Best Halloween costume you have had?
One year I made a clown costume for everyone in the family. We all matched! It was awesome! I still love that costume because you can swap up the hair and shoes and make up, and it looks like a different clown. No one even knows it’s the same 😊. Plus, you can wear it at any size—and, a coat can also fit underneath if needed to keep warm.
What’s the most exciting thing you’ll do in 2023?
I have wanted to go to Valencia, Spain, since before COVID. With COVID restrictions, it got postponed. I am hoping 2023 will be the year! I have my suitcase packed and everything ready to go, just need a ticket.
What would you rate 10/10?
The 2022 World Cup championship game—Argentina vs. France! Games don’t get better than that one!
What are you most likely to become famous for?
Well, in the next life I am going to be a famous singer with a beautiful voice. I will be very famous! You can watch for me there.
What weird food combinations do you really enjoy?
Corn chips with Nutella
A bite of strawberry with a bite-sized peanut butter cup
A slice of turkey with green grapes on the side for lunch
(I’m all about the perfect bite in general.)
Where could we find you on most Saturday mornings?
Working out or doing yard work
Where is your favorite place to go on vacation?
The beach or humanitarian trips
What is one thing you can’t live without?
Wet wipes—you can use them everywhere and for everything!
What movie quotes do you use on a regular basis?
“Hello gorgeous!” —Funny Girl
“Carpe Diem. Seize the day” —Dead Poets Society
“There’s no crying in baseball.” —A League of Their Own
“I could tell you, but then I’d have to kill you.” —Top Gun
“If you build it, they will come.” —Field of Dreams
“Houston, we have a problem.” —Apollo 13