She studies processes that contribute to socioeconomic inequalities in postsecondary degree attainment and labor market outcomes, including the unintended consequences of federal policies. She holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Prior to joining UT, she worked as a postdoctoral fellow at the Community College Research Center at Teacher’s College of Columbia University. Her research has received financial support from the National Academy of Education and Spencer Foundation, the American College Personnel Association, the Institute of Education Sciences, and the Institute for Research on Poverty.