Design & Innovation Management

Research area: The design of child care and development environments

Research interests: My research area is the design of child development and care facilities. Children’s memories of place are significant. An enriched child care and development center designed with color, form, and light provides children opportunities to explore and engage with the environment, thereby creating a sense of place. The center then becomes a familiar place of meaning, belonging, and connection for children, families, and teachers.

Sponsored Research:

Oregon State University College of Health and Human Sciences Pilot Grant. The impact of environmental color on the cooperative behavior of children with sensory processing challenges. 

Auburn University Competitive Research Grant. Alabama’s child care facilities: Are they designed to promote child safety and self esteem? 

Interior Design Educators Council Special Project Award. Evaluation of physical environments of child care facilities in Alabama. 

College of Human Sciences Faculty Development Grant. Presentation of multicultural design teaching approach at the World Congress on Environmental Design.