The five candidates running for APA’s 2017 president discuss their commitment to diversity and the opportunities that have resulted from changes to APA’s governance structure:
Q1: How will you integrate and reflect APA's commitment to diversity in all of your presidential endeavors?
Diversity and inclusion have stood as core values throughout my life, beginning with my upbringing as an Air Force dependent and continuing with my career in practice, teaching, training and organizational endeavors — particularly mentoring students of color. I have lived with and respected diverse people whose languages, cultures, sexuality, lifestyles and values differ from mine. My commitment goes beyond words. For example, rather than simply voicing support for the National Multicultural Conference and Summit, I chaired the committee raising over $150,000 to sustain it. My presidential endeavors will reflect supporting diversity and inclusion across all aspects of APA.
Q2: There are multiple changes to APA’s governance structure underway. What is one major opportunity this change offers the association?
APA's governance structure must respond to critical issues in a timely manner if we hope to remain an effective and engaged organization. We need to become visible and active in developing public policy because "psychology every day in every way" matters. With a focus on nimbleness, changes underway will provide opportunities to increase the participation of our constituencies in new ways and to weigh in on issues to advance psychology in today's world. This means being in the room, at the table, and at the head of the table when policy is discussed and decisions are made.