Welcome!
I am an Associate Professor of Philosophy and Affiliate Faculty in Women, Gender, and Sexuality Studies at Florida International University. My research discusses what it is like to be embodied in a social world, with an emphasis on body image and women's issues. I also teach courses on gender and race, existentialism, phenomenology, and the philosophy of death. Before arriving at FIU, I completed my B.A. and Ph.D. at Harvard University.
Inspired by the idea of philosophy as a way of life, I write and teach about timely topics to show how philosophical reflection can help us lead flourishing lives. I am passionate about bringing to light a wide range of philosophical topics for readers who are new to the field.
My personal essays have appeared in Medium, the Project Vox blog, and Psyche. My piece “Body Positivity Is Fixated on Beauty — Here’s How to Fix That” was awarded a prize by the American Philosophical Association for one of the best public philosophy op-eds of 2023. In 2024, I received a Marc Sanders Philosophy in the Media Fellowship.
My articles “What Is Body Positivity? The Path from Shame to Pride” and “Anatomy of the Thigh Gap” have attracted a wide readership. I have been sought out for her expertise in publications like VOGUE, The Atlantic, and The New York Times on topics ranging from body positivity to inclusivity in swimwear.
I have shared my insights on podcasts such as the Overthink Podcast and the Philosophy and Therapy Podcast. I am also the creator of the “Why Philosophy?” Substack, a newsletter for students, philosophy professors, and other lovers of wisdom about why philosophy matters today.