In September, APA members participating in the 2006 Education Leadership Conference (ELC) honored Rep. Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.) for her support of the Graduate Psychology Education (GPE) program and other legislative initiatives of interest to psychology. DeLauro addressed the ELC members and confirmed the rumor that she had once wanted to be tap dancer, which brought a round of laughter from the crowd.
DeLauro applauded the work that psychologists do, noting that "[they] give the gift of life." She stated that she is proud to be a strong supporter of the GPE program, noting the GPE-funded Yale Child Study Program and other GPE programs are providing needed services to underserved populations across the country.
DeLauro also accounted the budget battles on Capitol Hill, noting that Congress has not yet approved the Labor Health and Human Services Federal Year 2007 Appropriations Bill. However, DeLauro assured everyone attending the reception that she would fight hard for the GPE program. Before leaving, DeLauro also emphasized the need for Congress to pass mental health parity legislation, which is long overdue, she noted. DeLauro applauded ELC attendees for taking time to meet with their members of Congress. Her overall message: It is in working together that we can truly make a difference.
-N. Levitt, EdD
