Current research

My research focuses on connectedness, wellbeing, and technology use.. 

My dissertation was entitled: Doctoral Candidates’ Social Media Use and Connectedness During the “Dark Days of Dissertation Writing”

 Higher education

• Building sense of belonging among first-year students via first-year/transition seminars and initiatives
• Building sense of belonging among first generation students
• Mindfulness in higher education

Employee engagement and sense of community

• Use of technological tools for building community and engagement in staff organizations

Online learning

• Introverts, online learning, and connectedness

Social media and health

• The role of Facebook groups in management of chronic conditions; the role of Facebook groups in education and adherence to healing diets/lifestyles; safety and quality of information exchanged in social media groups; healthcare provider perceptions of social media groups for self-management

Social media and visitor behavior at national parks

• Influence of social media on visitor behaviors at national parks and wilderness areas; social media as an educational tool to enhance visitor experience