HIV & Sexual health Researcher
My research centers on HIV management and prevention, with a particular emphasis on understanding and addressing barriers to care, including HIV-related stigma. I examine how stigma disproportionately affects marginalized and vulnerable populations and undermines access to timely, effective treatment and support services. Through this work, I integrate a focus on psychological resilience, highlighting strengths, coping strategies, and protective factors that support sustained engagement in care. Ultimately, my scholarship aims to inform more equitable, person-centered approaches to HIV treatment, prevention, and long-term wellbeing.
Digital Sexual Assertiveness and Sugar relationships
This ongoing research explores sexual assertiveness and participation in sugar relationships among college women, with a particular focus on how these dynamics are navigated through dating applications. The study examines how women understand, express, and negotiate sexual assertiveness within digitally mediated relationships, including arrangements often characterized by power, exchange, and negotiated expectations. Central to this work is an analysis of sexual scripts and the ways they are shaped, reinforced, or contested within online dating platforms. By investigating these experiences in contemporary digital spaces, the study seeks to contribute nuanced insight into gender, agency, and sexual decision-making among college women.
Disease Intervention Specialist Expanded Roles
This mixed-methods study used primary data collected between April and July 2025 to examine the evolving roles and responsibilities of Disease Intervention Specialists (DIS) in HIV and STI prevention and treatment. Recruitment was facilitated through the National Coalition of STD Directors, in collaboration with health departments across the four U.S. Census regions, with surveys distributed via REDCap by DIS supervisors. Eligible participants had a minimum of 12 months of employment within their health departments. A total of 44 DIS from 26 health departments across seven states—Arizona, Maine, Michigan, Maryland, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia—participated. The study aims to generate actionable, practice-informed recommendations to strengthen and support the DIS workforce.
Serodiscordant Couple Narrative Review
Navigating the Weight of Stigma and Support: A Narrative Review of Heterosexual Serodiscordant Couples. This narrative review synthesizes literature from the past decade to explore the HIV-related stigma and social support encountered by serodiscordant couples, where one partner is HIV-positive and the other is HIV-negative. This review aims to address the following questions:
1. How do heterosexual HIV-serodiscordant couples perceive and experience HIV-related stigma?
2. How do partners engage in mutual decision-making and manage their emotions in the face of stigma?
3. What forms of support (interpersonal, community, institutional) do couples rely on, and how do they navigate these supports together?
Undergraduate Psychology Academic Advising
Our Student Advising and Resources services are tailored to provide students with the guidance, tools, and support essential for their success throughout their academic journey in abroad. We offer individualized advising to assist students in navigating course selections, understanding degree requirements, and comprehending academic policies, ensuring they remain on track for graduation.
LEADERSHIP COACHING
My leadership coaching focuses on empowering individuals to lead with authenticity, confidence, and purpose. I support emerging and established leaders—particularly in academic, health, and cross-cultural settings, by strengthening their self-awareness, decision-making, and communication skills. Through a reflective and strengths-based approach, I help clients overcome challenges, build resilience, and lead diverse teams with empathy and clarity. I also serve as a resource and thought partner, equipping leaders with practical tools and strategies to take decisive action and create meaningful impact. I am especially committed to empowering underrepresented and international leaders to embrace their unique voice and lead with intention.
As a mentor, I support both undergraduate and graduate students, particularly those studying psychology and international students navigating academic and cultural transitions. My approach blends academic guidance with personal development, helping students set clear goals, build confidence, and access resources that support their success. I am especially passionate about mentoring international students, drawing from my own experiences to offer culturally informed support. In psychology, I guide students through academic challenges, research opportunities, and career planning, fostering inclusive and affirming spaces for growth and learning.
MENTORSHIP
INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARS ADVISORY BOARD
I am a member of ISSAB. We are dedicated to assisting international students with programming and cultural transition support services. Our goal is to help students adapt smoothly to life abroad, both academically and socially. We provide support during student orientation, as relocating to a new country can come with various challenges. Our resources and guidance are designed to facilitate a seamless transition for students.
With VCU President Michael Rao, Ph.D., VCU Vice Provost Jill Blondin, Ph.D., and other International RAMS. Thank you, Nicol, Global Education office communications manager, for making this a success!
Black & Abroad Conference 2025
Global Initiatives: Phi Beta Delta Induction ceremony 2024.
Phi Beta Delta (PBD), established in 1986 at California State University, Long Beach, is the first honor society dedicated to recognizing academic excellence in international education. This organization is both an academic and professional society, distinguished by its interdisciplinary and international focus.
SBM CONFERENCE 2024
In 2024, we participated in the SBM conference held in Philadelphia from March 13 to 16. Pictured with me is the first author, Stephanie Cull, a third-year PhD candidate in Health Psychology at Virginia Commonwealth University. She is also a member of the Health Equity Advancement Laboratory (HEAL), which is supervised by Dr. Eric Benotsch, an associate professor in the Psychology Department at VCU and my academic advisor.
Ohio University students Expo 2022
ISSAB CHAT…
Members of ISSAB play a vital role in representing the interests and concerns of international students and scholars at Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU). We actively engage with the university's Global Education Office and facilitate discussions to significantly enhance the international experience for both students and scholars at VCU. Our efforts include advocating for international students and promoting cultural understanding, as well as providing support for the international community on campus.
Engaging in impactful conversations that have the potential to transform student lives. My primary focus lies in academic advising, where I guide students in navigating their educational pathways and aligning their goals with their academic pursuits. Additionally, I am dedicated to promoting cultural integration among diverse student populations, fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates various backgrounds and perspectives. Through mentorship, I strive to empower students to realize their potential and overcome challenges, ultimately making a significant and positive difference in their academic and personal journeys.