The 2021 virtual APA convention was a big success for Div. 44 as we had three jam-packed days of live programming with thoughtful discussions, active learning and community building. We had several outstanding presentation proposals submitted to our division for APA programming this year and were able to sponsor 15 symposia, two skills-building workshops and two discussions as well as several poster presentations. With more time to prepare and plan a virtual convention this year compared to APA 2020, it felt like there was even more engagement this year and more ease of navigating a virtual conference.
In addition to the many prerecorded presentations viewable on the APA virtual conference platform, our division incorporated back to back live programming content in two Zoom rooms this year. We were able to schedule several live follow up discussions to allow presenters to answer questions about their research. In this way, I believe we brought back some of the spark that comes from attending the in-person APA conference. I felt inspired and reflective while listening to the live discussions and presentations which is one of the things I love about attending APA. Additionally, we hosted a completely full hospitality suite program that attracted several participants.
Finally, our division hosted several community building events that were fun, supportive and meaningful. For example, the division hosted a social hour for trans and nonbinary graduate students and professionals. This provided an opportunity for trans and nonbinary people to network and find important connections and mentorship opportunities. Student leaders helped host community spaces for students and the division hosted its annual social hour, which included fun discussions of the TV series The L-word, and more. We had several members attend Mira Krishnan’s presidential address and the awards ceremony where several members were recognized for their contributions to improving and supporting the lives of LGBTQ+ people. I believe most members who attended left having learned something new and connected with someone new, which is a win in my book.