Question 3
Over the years, many psychologists have left APA because of its lack of attentiveness to and support for psychological researchers. What plans do you have to address this situation?
For most of its history, APA was an academic association representing the science of behavior. As professional psychology grew, APA added the mission of representing professional practice. As a result, some scientific psychologists believe APA cannot represent their interests well. APA attempts to serve two masters — the science and the practice of psychology. Few professional associations do this. I support an evolution of the field that values science as necessary for the application of psychology. We need to become an organization that respects and values basic and applied scientists, and bases applied psychology on scientific evidence.
Question 4
What has been the most significant challenge you experienced as a leader, and how did you respond?
As a department chair, I oversaw three campuses, two doctoral programs, two master's programs and an undergraduate major, which meant I had to accommodate many competing interests with limited time, money and space. Psychologists are educated, intelligent people with strong opinions that their endeavors should take priority over others. One cannot lead such a group by commanding them. I learned to listen, to validate the importance of each person's interests and share my decision-making process. Being transparent and sharing my rationale for decisions was crucial. APA is the biggest department, and my experiences prepared me well to lead APA.