Leadership
It is hard to believe that I am halfway through my term President of Division 49, and what a journey it has been. I got started with the Society as membership chair which is a great way to quickly get a sense of our organization. I remember that my first meeting was in Cincinnati during Martyn Whittingham’s presidency. I have been awestruck both then and now to be surrounded by titans of our field.
Those of us ending our terms have one last hurrah to look forward to at APA Convention (August 3-5 in Washington DC along with remote/hybrid events). Vinny Dehili, PhD our program chair, has taken the lead in putting together a wonderful program to highlight the group. For the first time, we will have an official social and a session of training process groups. We will soon be distributing the flyer to summarize all the events and we look forward to seeing many of you.
I want to take a moment to thank my fellow outgoing leaders for their service. They are David Marcus, PhD (group psychology), Eric Chen, PhD (diversity), Nathaniel Wade, PhD (psychotherapy), Shala Cole. PsyD (membership chair). I know our investments will continue to benefit the Society long after we are gone. In particular, Shala Cole and Eric Chen, along with former program chair, Lisa de la Rue, PhD founded The Institute, which is now a jewel in the crown of Division 49.
It is much easier to leave knowing the knowledge, talent, and dedication of those who are coming in. We just finished our elections, and I am pleased to announce the following incoming/returning officers:
- President-Elect: Joe Miles, PhD
- Treasurer: Debra O’Connell, PhD (continuing for another term)
- Domain Representative – Psychotherapy: Jill Paquin, PhD
- Domain Representative – Diversity: David Songco, PsyD
- Domain Representative – Group Psychology: Ronn Johnson, PhD
- Membership Chair (appointed): Stacy Graves, PhD
Additionally, we are currently in the search process for an Editor of Group Dynamics. Giorgio Tasca, PhD is ending his term after leading major advances to increase the impact factor and revenue generation of the journal. Many thanks to George for his service.
I hope to be involved with the Society long after my departure from office. I know that Francis Kaklauskas, PsyD (incoming President) has a wonderful vision for us. His focus on bringing together people will keep me engaged, and I look forward to being on that journey with you all.