Details EducationPhD, 1992, Kansas State University TeachingChildren’s and Adolescent Literature Research and professional interestsChildren’s and Adolescent LiteratureFantasy (esp. high fantasy and dragons)CensorshipLiteracy Awards and honorsGirl Scout Thanks Award (Giver for outstanding service to a Service Unit) 5/2009Certificate of Appreciation Award from Friendship Circle Service Unit of the GirlScouts of Dogwood Trails 2005-06, 2006-07, 2007-08, 2008-09University Service Award, 2006College of Arts and Letters Research Award, 2004Outstanding Leader, Girl Scout Council of Dogwood Trails, 2004, 2005Southwest Missouri State University Teaching Award 2003Excellence in Community Service, SMSU Award 2002College of Arts and Letters Service Award 2002Outstanding Service Award from Reading Roundup (Springfield Public Schools Foundation) 5/02Service Award from the Springfield Public Schools Diversity Committee 2001Honorable Mention for the SMSU Outstanding Faculty Advisor Award 2001