Department of Chemistry Chair
“I’m looking forward to supporting and mentoring my department colleagues to their next career levels as well as our continued growth and success as a department.”

Research Focus
“My lab employs thermodynamic and transient state kinetic techniques to understand the molecular mechanisms of motor proteins involved in protein homeostasis and transcription. We are currently funded by both the NIH and the NSF for our work.”

Biggest accomplishment(s)
“One of my biggest accomplishments is directing the Department of Chemistry Ph.D. program since 2015. Over this time, the Ph.D. program has nearly doubled in size and supports the research efforts of five new faculty members hired since 2015.

Another major accomplishment is conferring 13 Ph.D.’s in 19 years; four of whom are current faculty members at different universities. All have secured excellent positions in a variety of sectors from the brewing industry, FDA, and biotechnology.”

Interests:

• I own a 37-foot sailboat moored in Pensacola, FL, that I enjoy sailing with my wife, friends, and family. I have been sailing since 2012, and I’m certified to captain sloop rigged sailing vessels up to 50 feet.
• I participate in weight training and competing in powerlifting events throughout the country. I currently hold all the Alabama state records in USA Powerlifting for my age and weight class.

Department of Communication Studies Chair
“I am excited about working with my departmental colleagues and graduate students. I am also excited about growing our departmental curriculum.”

Research focus
“I am a media and cultural studies scholar. Most of my research revolves around representations in media and film, postcolonial theory, and social media. Currently I am working on a book project on soap operas.”

Biggest accomplishment(s)
“One of my biggest accomplishments is building a new major at the College of Wooster. The Global Media and Digital Studies major was a lot of work, but it was a joy to build it and see it grow. Additionally, I was the President of Central States Communication Association between April 2023-April 2024.”

Interests
“I LOVE movies, so I watch a lot of them. I also love reading mystery novels, traveling, and baking.”

Department of Biology Chair
“I am genuinely excited about working with a group of extremely talented and dedicated faculty, staff, and students in the Department of Biology.”

Research focus
“I use microscopy and biochemical approaches to better understand how cells in our bodies replicate and evenly distribute their genomic information during division.”

Biggest accomplishment(s)
“I contributed to the establishment and vision of the University of Wyoming’s newly formed Science Institute.”

Interests
“My hobbies and interests were shaped by my environment growing up and a love for the outdoors. In my free time, I enjoy mountain biking, fly fishing, hunting, hiking, and reading good science fiction.”

Department of Theatre Chair
“I am honored to be leading the UAB Department of Theatre as it introduces a new Theatre Education concentration, redesigns a robust and exciting BA degree, and continues its strong tradition in musical theatre. I look forward to championing the arts on a renowned STEM campus, advocating for the ‘A’ for arts in STEM to make STEAM!”

Research focus
“My teaching and research passions include African theatre and film, how the West frames the African continent across various media, the politics of performance, non-Western performance traditions, theatres of dissent, the performance of gender (masculinity) and race (whiteness) in South Africa, and global citizenship through study abroad.”

Biggest accomplishment(s)
“I am most proud of the transformations I have led at two previous institutions, internationalizing the curriculum and multicultural theatre training, establishing a study abroad program in South Africa, and building a diverse team that works well together towards shared goals.”

Interests
“I restore my soul in nature, far from the madding crowd. I also write poetry and practice beading. I also love fixing up old houses, ‘mermaiding’ in the ocean, and travel - anywhere and everywhere as frequently as possible!”

Department of Art and Art History Chair
“I’m thrilled to promote our artistic research and deepen connections with the Greater Birmingham community, celebrating and contributing to its vibrant cultural landscape. I’m equally excited about the possibilities for interdisciplinary collaboration across the university, where creative intersections can lead to innovative and meaningful work.”

Research focus
“I am a multimedia artist whose practice centers on vessel and furniture forms. Most recently, my work has focused on designing and developing chair forms that embody and reflect human instincts and desires.”

Goals as department chair
“At UAB, I am committed to promoting the creation of new academic areas through both departmental and interdepartmental collaboration—such as Game Design, Animation, Digital Illustration, Museology, and other emerging fields. I strive to cultivate an environment where students and faculty are empowered to explore, experiment, and innovate, ensuring our academic offerings remain relevant, forward-looking, and impactful.”

Interests
“It may seem paradoxical to enjoy working outside of designated hours, yet I find genuine fulfillment in dedicating my personal time to art research in my studio. This overlap between professional engagement and personal passion is, I believe, one of the unique privileges of being an artist. What others might see as a hobby, I am fortunate to pursue as both my vocation and avocation.”