Halito! (that’s hello in Choctaw)
Welcome to my website! I’m Anita (she/her) – a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Geological Sciences at the University of Florida, Gainesville.
My primary area of expertise is geoscience education where my research centers on the experiences of people with disabilities and broadening participation in science disciplines through inclusive experiential learning (especially in the field), and using technology to create more inclusive and accessible learning opportunities. I incorporate qualitative research methods to identify barriers to participation within the geosciences and to evaluate strategies designed to address those barriers. My work is informed by disability justice principles, geo-ethics and Indigenous relationality concepts, my own experiences as a disabled geoscientist and my non-traditional academic path.
My geologic training is broad and I take pride in being a bit of a generalist when it comes to geology. My doctoral work included research in volcanology; using near-surface geophysics to examine deposits and sub-surface features of volcanic eruptions involving groundwater. My master’s work focused on using GPS geodesy to study groundwater-related subsidence in Arkansas and tectonics in the Caribbean. Now I mostly focus my research on how we can bring more people into the geosciences and how to improve our academic programs. What do all these interests have in common? I love exploring how our planet works – from the complex relationships between geologic processes, to the complex relationships between people, science, & society.
I teach a broad range of geoscience courses in-person and online, ranging from introductory geoscience classes to mentoring graduate research. Use the navigation bar at the top of the page to learn more about my research, teaching and other things I’m working on!
Click here if you are looking for information on the GeoSPACE Accessible Planetary Geology Field Course.
