• What is your degree program and expected graduation date? PhD program in Couple and Family Therapy, May 2019

• Please describe your research: My research utilizes a multicultural and social justice model for treating Black Americans in therapy, who have been traumatized by the masses, due to the deaths of Black Americans by police officers.

• In simple terms, why does this research matter? Such chronic race-based trauma, which has historical roots in racism and discrimination, has consequences for Black families and communities that last for generations which needs to be better understood global and particularly in therapeutic settings.

• How soon after starting at the University of Iowa were you able to participate in research? I started research within the first semester.

• How has being involved in research made you more successful at the University of Iowa? Research has helped me to develop a professional identity, that I would not have otherwise, and to feel more capable and confident in myself and capabilities as a person.

• What are your career goals and/or plans after graduation? I plan to pursue an academic position at a University and continue to practice privately as a Marriage and Family Therapist, Divorce Mediator and Collaborative Law Coach and Child Specialist.

• Faculty mentor/advisor: Dr. Armeda Wojciak

• Hometown: Chicago, IL

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