Thursday, August 14, 2008
5:00–6:30 P.M.
Boston Convention and Exhibition Center, Grand Ballroom

The 2008 Opening Session promises to be an exciting way to kick off a highly rewarding and memorable convention experience. With musical entertainment, the presentation of the APA Award for Outstanding Lifetime Contributions to Psychology, and a keynote presentation from best-selling author Malcolm Gladwell, the program features something for everyone.

Keynote address

Malcolm Gladwell is a staff writer for The New Yorker magazine and highly successful author of two New York Times #1 bestsellers: The Tipping Point and Blink. In 2005, Time magazine named Mr. Gladwell one of its 100 Most Influential People. His editor describes his work as a new genre of story, an idea-driven narrative that's focused on the everyday and combines research with material that's more personal, social, and historical. Come hear this exciting and provocative speaker!

Honors for Edward Zigler, PhD

Be a part of history as Edward Zigler, PhD, Sterling Professor of Psychology, Emeritus, at Yale University, receives APA's highest honor, the APA Award for Outstanding Lifetime Contributions to Psychology. Dr. Zigler founded and is Director Emeritus of Yale's Zigler Center in Child Development and Social Policy. Widely known as one of the founders of the field of applied developmental psychology, Dr. Zigler pioneered the discipline of developmental psychopathology as well as the developmental approach to mental retardation and adult psychopathology. He was a key figure in generating the momentum for universal preschool education programs, including Head Start, Early Head Start, and the Family and Medical Leave Act. Come meet this distinguished psychologist!

Entertainment

Join in the fun as we are energized by the musical talents and diversity of the Boston City Singers, a highly acclaimed youth and children's treble chorus. The Boston City Singers takes pride in providing unique music education and performance opportunities for young people, regardless of their musical or socioeconomic circumstances. Under the direction of Jane Money, they inspire personal development, emphasize the rewards of teamwork, celebrate diversity, and foster goodwill worldwide. The Boston City Singers has performed at public and civic events at City Hall, Fenway Park, and the John Hancock Hall. They enthusiastically present a range of artistic and joyful music, including classical, medieval, traditional folk, jazz, Broadway, international, and multicultural works. http://www.bostoncitysingers.org/

Let the exciting performances and impressive speakers at the Opening Session set the stage for your 2008 convention experience!