Flinn Scholar Class of 2003
Arizona State University
Q: Will you share a little about your current role and what excites you most about your work?
I direct the research team at the American Foundation for the Blind, a national nonprofit working to create equal opportunities and expand possibilities for blind people like me. I get to lead a team of smart, motivated, mission-oriented researchers and student fellows, most of whom are also blind. Our research directly influences policies protecting the rights of blind and low-vision Americans and ensuring equal access to technology.
Q: How did being a Flinn Scholar shape your academic and/or career path?
I think the biggest impact of my Flinn experience was being assigned an official mentor, Dr. Jane Maienschein at ASU. Her guidance was invaluable in helping me organize my scattered ideas and passions into a coherent plan for undergraduate research and postgraduate study.
Q: Is there a project, achievement, or experience you’re especially proud of?
In 2021, I self-published a memoir chronicling lots of teachable moments from my childhood and building a vision of disability justice. You can learn more about my book “Just Human: The Quest for Disability Wisdom, Respect, and Inclusion” here.
Q: What impact do you hope to make in your field or community in the coming years?
I hope to keep putting out influential research studies that help shape technology and policy development, and I also hope to keep empowering blind people to go into research careers.
Q: What’s one unexpected skill you picked up during college that you still use today?
Early in college, I made a conscious decision to schedule eight hours for sleep each night, no matter how busy I was. I also took a full day off from studying every week. I credit those habits for my strong GPA and being able to fully absorb all I was learning. Some people think more hours working equals better performance, but I discovered that rest is essential for optimal learning and performance. I still follow these habits today and encourage others to do the same.
Q: What’s something you’re currently learning, exploring, or curious about?
Lately, I’ve been learning a lot about neurodiversity, the idea that our brains are all different and there isn’t a single “normal” way to think or interact with the world. I find this idea really freeing.