Current Anthropology MA Students

Celeste Schultheiss

Anthropology: Biological Anthropology, Bioarchaeology, Mortuary Practices, Human Growth and Development, Paleopathology, Dental Anthropology, Life History Approach, Resilience Theory

Hello! My name is Celeste Schultheiss, and I am a second-year graduate student in Biological Anthropology at George Mason University. I am originally from Hot Springs, Arkansas (Woo Pig Sooie!) and earned my Bachelor's degree in Anthropology from Indiana University.

My research focuses on childhood biological stress in ancient Peruvian populations through the analysis of dental fluctuating asymmetry (FA). Focusing on two Colonial-era Muchik communities, Mórrope and Eten (1536–1750 CE), I examine how Spanish colonialism and socioeconomic disruption impacted Indigenous health and development. This work is part of the Lambayeque Valley Biohistory Project, directed by Dr. Haagen Klaus.

Before joining George Mason, I worked as a Bioarchaeological Laboratory Assistant at Indiana University, contributing to a historic cemetery relocation project.

Outside of academia, I enjoy caring for houseplants, reading, and spending time with my three-year-old corgi, Maple.

 

Courses Taught

TA for ANTH 385 (Fall 2024) with Jamie L. Clark

TA for ANTH 135-001 (Spring 2025) with Kimberly Foecke

Education

B.A. in Anthropology, Indiana University, Indianapolis - MAY 2024

M.A. in Anthropology, George Mason University - EXPECTED MAY 2026