Bio
I joined Iowa State’s History Department in 2002 and, over the years, have taught many courses including Introduction to Western Civilization I (HIST 2010), Ancient Empires (HIST 2110), Greek Civilization (HIST 4020), and Roman Civilization (HIST 4030). With Professor Rachel Meyers (WLC), I occasionally teach study abroad classes in Italy. Since the summer of 2026 I have also served as Chair of the History Department.
My research focuses on Roman economic history with particular attention paid to coinage, agriculture, taxes, and trade. My first book, Money in the Late Roman Republic (Brill, 2007) placed Roman coinage in its broader monetary context by also examining the role of bullion, financial instruments, commodities, and credit. My second book, Farmers and Agriculture in the Roman Economy (Routledge, 2018) argued that Roman farmers, often viewed as self-sufficient, depended on markets to supply them with a wide range of goods and services. I’ve also written about ancient insects, glue, and, for the Conversation, Roman voting. I currently serve as one of the General Editors for The Encyclopedia of Ancient History (Wiley-Blackwell).
Ask An Historian
Do you study anything weird?
Most aspects of Greek and Roman culture are at least a little weird. If I had to choose just one weird Roman thing it might be the so-called sacred chickens that Roman generals had to consult before starting a battle.