Global Governance

Focus areas: Transnational Advocacy Networks, Security Studies, and Information & Communication Technologies (ICTs)

Transnational advocacy networks (TANs) are coalitions of actors, including non-governmental organizations (NGOs), activists, international organizations, policymakers, researchers, and sometimes private sector entities, who work across national borders to promote a particular cause, influence policy, and advocate for political and/or social change. These networks use information exchange, persuasion, and pressure tactics to shape international norms, policies, and state behavior.

Information Communication Technology (ICTs) refer to the role of digital technologies—such as the internet, telecommunications networks, and data systems—in shaping human and state security dynamics.  ICTs have transformed security strategies, but they also pose serious challenges to privacy rights.

My teaching philosophy is rooted in a project-based approach that emphasizes collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking to make concepts both engaging and applicable. I believe students learn best when working with real-world data, case studies, and hands-on projects, allowing them to see research as a tool for solving complex problems. Instead of memorizing theories, they design studies, analyze findings, and communicate results in ways that mirror real-world research. Group collaboration is central to my teaching, as it reflects the interdisciplinary nature of research and encourages students to refine their ideas through discussion and feedback.

I also emphasize creativity and ethical inquiry, encouraging students to think beyond traditional research models by incorporating innovative methodologies, data visualization, and emerging technologies. Critical thinking is essential, so I challenge students to question assumptions, evaluate bias, and consider the ethical implications of research. Above all, I am passionate about engaging students and fostering intellectual curiosity, ensuring they leave my classroom not only with technical research skills but also with the confidence and mindset to apply them in meaningful ways.

•Academic Conference Presentation, Social Science History Association (SSHA). “Transnational Advocacy Networks (TANs) & NGOs in the Development of Climate Discourse” Upcoming: November 2023.

• Academic Conference Presentation, Social Science History Association (SSHA). “Casualty Recording and Agency After Life.”

November 2021.

• Academic Conference Presentation, International Studies Association (ISA) Human Rights & Foreign Policy Conference;

“Approaches to the Protection of Civilians in Conflict: Policy Efficacy of Casualty Recording & Weapons’ Bans” June 2021.

• Academic Conference Presentation, International Studies Association (ISA) Human Rights & Foreign Policy Conference; “A

Comparative Analysis of Tracking Civilian Harm Casualty Recording in Afghanistan.” June 2021.

• Academic Conference Presentation, International Studies Association (ISA)

Annual Convention; Virginia Tech, Toronto CAN; “Digital Citizens in War: An analysis of changing international norms for citizens in

conflicts”. January 2019.

• Academic Conference Presentation, International Studies Association (ISA)

Annual Convention; Virginia Tech. Baltimore, MD; “Comparative Analysis of Populations, Networks, & Political Outcomes during the

Iranian Revolution and Egypt’s ‘Arab Spring’.” January 2017.

• Academic Conference Presentation, International Studies Association (ISA) South; Virginia Tech, Shepherdstown, WV; “Digital

Disruption and the Fog of Civil War: Non-State Actors & Virtual Armies in Syria.” Presented to the Panel on Cyberspace, War, and

Regulation on August 15, 2016.

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Dissertation Title:

“How Transnational Advocacy Networks Emerge: An Empirical Investigation of a Casualty

Recording Network.” https://vtechworks.lib.vt.edu/handle/10919/114030

The Dynamic Classroom is a blog dedicated to exploring the transformative power of active and engaging teaching strategies.