Bryan (he/they) is a third-year Ph.D. student at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. They joined the department as a master’s student in 2018 with a focus on the environment. He received his undergraduate degree in sociology from Norfolk State University. Bryan is currently interested in research that explores socio-ecological relationships, environmental justice, and food justice as they relate to race, class, gender, and sexuality.

While at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, Bryan has taught Introduction to Sociology, Introduction to the Study of Environmental Issues, Social Inequalities, and Food, Agriculture, and Society.

Bryan has served as an AmeriCorps member supporting at-risk youth at Big Brothers Big Sisters of East Tennessee by facilitating a positive youth development experience through mentorship. During his time in AmeriCorps, they were trained in trauma-informed approaches to care and environmental education. He also helped develop a career fair and led hikes for mentors and their mentees.