I look forward to teaching my first class at Princeton in the fall of 2026 in the department of Art and Archaeology. 

Prior to coming to Princeton, I taught courses in archaeology, anthropology, history, ancient Mesoamerica, and Maya hieroglyphic writing for the University of Pennsylvania (2013-2017) and for Bard Early College, Newark Campus (2017-2022). I have taught students of differing ages, backgrounds, and levels of academic preparation, endeavoring to adapt my instruction to the interests and background knowledge of the students in front of me. In my courses, I balance activity-driven and object-based instruction with the development of student skills in critical analysis, research, writing, and oral presentation. 

In addition to classroom instruction, I have supervised independent studies with students at Penn and Bard focused on archaeological ceramics and advanced Maya epigraphy. I have also welcomed students from Penn, Brandeis, and the Universidad del Vale de Guatemala to participate in my field world at the site of La Florida, Guatemala. These students have been involved in exploration, mapping, excavation, ceramic analysis, epigraphic documentation, and community outreach.

Students Say

“I liked the variety of teaching styles, from lectures, to discussions, to videos, to field trips.”

“Mesoamerican culture days are fun and help me understand the concepts. That Mesoamerican calendar activity you did with us really helped me understand the complicated system.”

“I was originally planning a double major in English and Cognitive Science, but now I’m positive English and Anthropology are for me. I’m thrilled I took your class and I’m thrilled about a major in the subject. High school counselors love to talk about ‘classes that will change your direction’—this was definitely one of them.”

“ahhh i finally get the appeal. History class used to be my most hated but now is seee; bringing things back to the present from the past and making comparisons. I can use this. Thank you.” (Zoom chat comment)