She teaches courses in human resource policy and management, administrative and governmental ethics, organization theory and behavior, and courses examining contemporary race and gender issues. Her most recent research examines government and its relationship with underserved communities and persistent social equity barriers in communities of color. She also serves as affiliated faculty with FIU’s African & African Diaspora Studies program and currently serves on its Steering Committee. She is also affiliated faculty with the Center for Women’s and Gender Studies. Dr. Patterson has also held administrative appointments at Florida International University as the Assistant Dean of the College of Urban and Public Affairs and as Associate Director of the School of Policy and Management.