Rooted in the Society of Military Psychology’s mission to foster excellence in military psychology, the Society Leadership Program (SLP) provides an immersive experience that combines structured leadership training, individualized mentorship, and applied project development.
SLP participants engage in a comprehensive leadership development process that includes an initial leadership assessment, regular mentorship meetings, and a series of virtual learning modules that explore the theory and practice of leadership within wide-ranging and global contexts. Over the course of the program, participants also design and implement a capstone leadership project directly aligned with the Society’s ongoing initiatives, ranging from committee efforts to broader organizational goals.
A defining feature of the program is the opportunity for participants to observe and engage with the Society’s Executive Committee (EXCOM). Participants attend the Midyear EXCOM Meeting, either in person or via teleconference, and later participate in the Society’s leadership activities during the APA Annual Convention. This structure allows emerging leaders to gain firsthand exposure to organizational governance, advocacy, and collaborative decision-making.
Throughout the year, participants are expected to:
- Lead a journal club session based on literature relevant to their capstone focus.
- Present updates and outcomes of their projects at the APA convention.
- Collaborate with mentors to refine their leadership skills and define a future pathway to leadership within the Society.
Graduates of the SLP are encouraged to continue their involvement through committee service, elected leadership positions, and broader professional engagement. To support participation, the Society provides some funds for travel reimbursement for those attending the APA Convention in person.
The program’s deliberate focus on varied experiences, service, and strategic leadership reflects the evolving needs of military psychology in an increasingly complex world. By building a bridge between current and future leaders, the SLP continues to support the Society’s vision of informed, ethical, and impactful leadership across academic, clinical, research, and operational settings.
Applications for the SLP are openopens in new window to current doctoral students and psychologists within ten years of completing their doctorate who are active members of the Society for Military Psychology. Now entering its eighth year, the SLP remains a key pathway for preparing the next generation of leaders committed to advancing the field and contributing meaningfully to the psychological well-being of military personnel and their families.
