My approach to leadership is data-informed, networked, and relational.  Leadership is “the practice of inspiring others to make positive change in the service of a vision within a structure or an organization” (M. Hass). In higher education, this would mean, for example, building and institutionalizing approaches (e.g., programs) that increase access and improve outcomes for students.

My leadership roles at Michigan Tech include Director of Undergraduate Studies – a position I proposed and developed in 2018. In 2021, I held concurrently the positions of Director of Graduate Studies in Social Sciences and Faculty Fellow at the Graduate School. These administrative experiences provided an immersive study of student affairs leadership, which included policies, practices, and decision-making processes.

In July 2023, I was appointed the Associate Dean of STEM Equity, where I work with the Graduate School team to connect collaboratively across campus to support graduate education – and develop grants and programs that provide inclusive pathways for success.

My leadership and service also include working internationally. In 2020, I was elected president of the Association of Critical Heritage Studies (ACHS).  ACHS is an international association with over 2500 members that has been the key voice for in heritage research and education.  I work with an Executive Board, and Chapter leads to develop policies and innovative practices that serve our members. Before this, I served as the Secretary.

I am a member of the editorial board of the International Journal of Heritage Studies.

I have served as an advisor for IUCN Commission on Environmental, Economic, and Social Policy (CEESP) and as an Expert Member for ICOMOS on the International Committee on Archaeological Heritage Management (ICAHM) Committee (2008-2014). I was also involved with the Intellectual Property Issues in Cultural Heritage (IPinCH) from 2010-2015.