I was born and raised in Bozeman, Montana, went to college at the University of Montana, and taught English in Budapest, Hungary for two years following graduation. I received my PhD in linguistics at the University of Chicago under the guidance of Jerry Sadock, Amy Dahlstrom, and the late, much missed Jim McCawley. I have been teaching linguistics at the University of Utah since 2001.

My research interests are in pragmatics, especially deixis in written language. Lately, I've also developed an interest in all aspects of taboo language.

In my spare time I read novels, hike, cross-country ski, travel with my wife, and play with my dog.

I'm a newbie at LINGUIST List, and I look forward to working with all the greatfolks here and the linguistic community at large.