She received her Ph.D. in Religion from Claremont Graduate University, with an emphasis in History of Christianity, in 2003. She received her M.A. and B.A. from Brigham Young University in Ancient Near Eastern Studies and History, respectively. She serves on the Executive Board of the Society for Mormon Philosophy and Theology. Her presentations and publications include work on adoptive redemption in the Old Testament, the writings of Paul, and the Book of Mormon; Franciscan piety in late medieval Jerusalem pilgrimage and interactions with eastern Christians; New Testament historical context; and Latter-day Saint theology and doctrine.