Research Focus
My research explores critical issues in higher education, focusing on how institutions, policies, and instructional practices impact student outcomes. I am particularly interested in the following areas:

• Student Resistance to Active Learning: Understanding the psychological, social, and cultural barriers that inhibit the adoption of active learning strategies in STEM education. My work aims to identify evidence-based solutions that enhance student engagement and reduce resistance.
• Equity and Access in Higher Education: Examining the intersections of institutional policies, socioeconomic diversity, and access to postsecondary education, with a focus on underrepresented and low-income student populations.
• Educational Data Analytics: Leveraging large-scale datasets and advanced statistical methodologies to uncover actionable insights into student retention, success, and institutional effectiveness.
• Faculty Development and Teaching Practices: Investigating how professional development programs for faculty impact teaching quality and long-term student learning outcomes.

My ultimate goal is to contribute to the creation of equitable, effective educational systems that meet the diverse needs of today’s learners.

Ongoing Projects

• Regional Public Universities and College Access
  This project explores the trade-offs between institutional prestige and access for underrepresented and low-income students. By analyzing enrollment data and policies at public universities, I work to uncover systemic inequities and propose solutions to enhance access.
• Advancing Quantitative Research in Higher Education
  Focused on methodological innovations, this initiative applies advanced techniques—such as structural equation modeling (SEM), survival analysis, and causal inference—to uncover nuanced insights into educational phenomena.
• Understanding and Reducing Student Resistance as a Barrier to Faculty Change
  This multi-year project seeks to identify strategies to mitigate resistance to active learning in undergraduate STEM classrooms. By collaborating with faculty and analyzing classroom interactions, I aim to provide actionable recommendations to improve teaching effectiveness.

Research Methods
I employ a diverse set of research methods to address complex questions in higher education, including:

• Quantitative Methods: Advanced statistical modeling, such as hierarchical linear modeling (HLM), time-series regression, SEM, and causal inference, to analyze large-scale datasets and test theoretical frameworks.
• Qualitative Methods: Interviews, focus groups, and thematic analysis to explore the lived experiences of students, faculty, and administrators.
• Mixed-Methods Approaches: Integrating quantitative and qualitative data to provide comprehensive insights and actionable solutions for policymakers and educators.
• Data Visualization and Reporting: Creating clear, impactful visuals and reports tailored to diverse audiences, from academic researchers to institutional leaders.

Impact and Vision
Through my research, I aim to drive meaningful change in higher education by:

• Identifying barriers to student success and creating strategies to overcome them.
• Informing policies that promote equitable access and retention for marginalized groups.
• Equipping educators and institutions with the tools to implement evidence-based practices.

By bridging the gap between research and practice, my work supports the development of inclusive, effective educational environments that empower all learners to thrive.