I am a native of New Orleans and I received my bachelor's degree from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, my master's from Stephen F. Austin State University, and my PhD from LSU, where I specialized in southern history, with an interest in slavery and politics. I also did a concentration in southern literature. I have published a number of articles and essays in these areas and I am currently working on a
manuscript in Louisiana politics and ethnicity before the Civil War. I strongly believe that good teaching comes from keeping active in research and professional development. I am an active member in several historical associations, as well as, the American Association of University Professors.