Degrees:

• BS, Mount Union College, 1988
• PhD, University of Tennessee, 1994

Courses:

• Bio 301 – Writing in the Biological Sciences
• Bio 317 / 517 – Immunology
• Bio 326 – General Microbiology Laboratory
• Bio 356 / 556 – Parasitology & Advanced Zoo Parasitology
• Bio 460 / 560 – Molecular Biology
• Bio 465 / 565 – Virology
• Bio 480 – Biology Capstone
• Bio 516 – Medical Microbiology
• Bio 564 – Medical Parasitology

Current Research Projects:

Effects of statins (cholesterol-lowering drugs) on lipopolysaccharide-mediated inflammation in human aortic endothelial cells. Inflammation may be the underlying cause for arteriosclerosis. Statins have anti-inflammatory effects in addition to their well-known cholesterol-lowering activity. Theories have been proposed that link low levels of inflammation caused by bacterial infections and normal flora releasing lipopolysaccharide into the body system to the initiation of the atherosclerotic process. We are investigating if statins can block or reduce inflammation associated with exposure to lipopolysaccharide.

Interests and Hobbies:

• Gardening
• Theater
• Home renovation
• Spending time with our pets