2015 APA convention highlights

Great interdivisional programming at the APA convention in Toronto.

 
By Chad D. Jensen, PhD
 
The 2015 Annual APA Convention, held in Toronto, Canada, offered numerous opportunities for continuing education and career development for Div. 54 members. The convention keynote address featured a prominent pediatric psychologist and acclaimed writer, Jonathan Kellerman, PhD. Division members were key contributors to many collaborative programs which assembled experts across APA divisions. Collaborative programs including SPP presenters included:
 
  • Best Practices in Modeling Longitudinal Data: Making Complex Theory Accessible
  • Mental Health and Wellness in LGBTQ Youths and Young Adults
  • Integrated Primary Care for At-risk Children: NICU Follow-up and Foster Care
  • A Qualitative Evaluation of New Fatherhood: Implications for Policy and Practice
  • The Role of Technology in Disseminating Psychology
  • Highlights from Div. 54 programming included:
  • Making a Difference: Moving Child Research Off the Shelf and Into Practice, a symposium chaired by Christine Chambers, PhD
  • Translating Basic Behavioral Science into New Interventions to Reduce Pediatric Heath Disparities, a symposium chaired by Sylvie Naar, PhD
  • Leadership Development: Developing Skills and Sharing Lessons Learned, a conversation hour hosted by Wendy Ward, PhD
  • Addressing Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders: Diverse Roles for Psychologists, a symposium chaired by Barbara Ward-Zimmerman, PhD and Jennifer Lovell, PhD
 
Programs designed for students, trainees and early career psychologists included speed mentoring, a discussion hour with current interns and faculty about preparation for internships, and the ever-popular internships and postdocs on parade. Division members also enjoyed the numerous cultural and social opportunities available in beautiful Toronto. Many thanks to Karen Roberts, Elizabeth Pulgaron and all of the Div. 54 members who contributed to the convention’s success.