Leadership and Governance

Nicole Barnes, PhD, is executive lead psychologist for education at the American Psychological Association. She leads APA's education portfolio, advancing initiatives that strengthen psychology's impact across PK-12 education, higher education and training, workforce development, and lifelong learning. Prior to joining APA, she served as a university faculty member, where she taught, mentored, and supported the professional development of future psychologists. She also worked as a fifth-grade teacher, bringing firsthand experience with the opportunities and challenges facing Pk-12 schools, students, and educators. Her work focuses on advancing psychology's contribution to education, improving outcomes for learners across the lifespan, and strengthening psychology education pathways.