Background
Growing up in rural Indonesia I early on came to identify the nuances of environmental governance relative to state development resources, cultural identity, and processes of globalization. I began my professional work in post-disaster reconstruction initiatives, organizing student groups in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, followed by an extended period living alongside communities in Aceh rebuilding from the Indian Ocean tsunami. Being part of recovery efforts led me to a more systems-based interest in vulnerability and resilience. I thereafter worked on various city planning, resource management, and climate diplomacy and action initiatives. Overall, I am interested in the way governments, other institutions, and communities converge to reshape the environment.
Education
- PhD, Geography and Environment, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, 2019
- MURP, Urban and Regional Planning, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, 2019
- Grad Cert., Conflict Resolution, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, 2016
- Grad Cert., Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, 2013
- BA, Urban Policy and Practice, University of Richmond, 2006
Specializations
Political ecology; Environmental governance; Forest/agrarian change; Climate adaptation; and Indonesia
Research
I study the political economic dynamics of land use change with a focus on livelihood transitions and environmental governance. I have worked on, and studied disasters, deforestation, conservation, water resources, and urbanization. I am especially interested in the changing complexities of natural resources, development dynamics, and mobility in Indonesia. I am also committed to engaged methodologies such as participatory action research as a means for advocacy, environmental justice, and good governance. I also seek to innovate collaborative classrooms and apply emerging technologies in my work. I am currently the editor in chief of the journal Forest and Society.