Why did you join the division?
I joined Division 9 (SPSSI) as a graduate student because my research interests aligned with an interdisciplinary approach that applied social psychology to real-world social problems. I also joined because of the encouragement from a trusted professor I was taking a class with at the time.
What do you value most about being a social psychologist?
I value finding ways to give voice to individuals and understanding the complexities of groups and our place within them. I believe that understanding social norms and the power of context helps us to better respond to the world around us in more meaningful and helpful ways.
Who inspires you?
My students inspire me. I am grateful to have taught courses on power and prejudice for ten years and depend on students' energy and passion for helping. Many of my teachers have also inspired me, including Mr. Rogers and LaVar Burton.
What’s something you want people to know about your division?
I would like people to know that using empirical evidence to inform public policy is at the core of SPSSI’s mission and that we have a strong history of congressional seminars, policy workshops, advocacy days, public comments and open letters, and numerous policy-related grants and fellowships. SPSSI conferences often feel like a rallying space and a space to find empirical evidence for specific policies. I also want people to know that SPSSI welcomes all individuals interested in the psychological study of social issues.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself.
I have a few! First, I have an identical twin. Second, I am originally from Maine and, though I now live in Pennsylvania, still strongly identify with being a Mainah. Thirdly, I have a fibula in my face! In 2019, I was diagnosed with salivary gland cancer. Reconstructive surgery of my jaw included removing a part of my fibula and fashioning a new jaw from it.
Contact: Ryan Pickering