I have been a physics professor at Roosevelt University since 2013. I received my Ph.D. in theoretical nuclear physics from Michigan State University. I have a strong interest in physics education research and teaching and mentoring in general. I want most to help people to achieve their personal and professional goals, both in academics and in life. I enjoy meeting students at their level of understanding and building bridges to new concepts and skills in an accepting yet challenging environment. I also study and teach Nonviolent Communication, which I use to connect with myself and others to solve problems collaboratively. My goal here is to enable students to become self-empowered learners. Elsewhere, I enjoy bicycling, yoga, and philosophy.