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Doctoral Candidate
University of Illinois Chicago
My research agenda focuses on the health, educational, and other related participation disparities for racially and ethnically diverse children with disabilities and their families. I am largely interested in viewing these issues through the lens of critical race and disability theories, resiliency, and empowerment. African American and Latinx children with disabilities and their families face a host of health, educational, and participation disparities compared to their white counterparts. As a scholar and practicing occupational therapist, I have first-hand insight and perspective into the experiences of minority families’ experiences within various systems, like healthcare, education, and community participation. My dissertation currently focuses on understanding the school readiness process during COVID-19 for African American families with a child with a developmental and/or intellectual disability or delay. Through my current and future research endeavors, I seek to understand disparities from the perspective of minority families and children by taking a holistic and community-engaged approach. My research seeks to highlight and elevate the voices of marginalized groups who are often silenced and provide a sense of empowerment for them to showcase their strengths despite adversity.