SPP Board of Directors-Member Transitions
The year end is always bittersweet, as we thank members, who will be rotating off the SPP Board of Directors at the end of 2024, and as we welcome the newly elected and appointed members, who will join the board in 2025.
Outgoing Board Members
Perry Catlin, MS – As Student Representative, Perry has been a strong advocate for students and the Student Advisory Board. It has been delightful to see Perry grow as a respected leader, bringing creative solutions to the SPP Board. His energy and enthusiasm will be missed!
Megan Cohen, PhD, ABPP - As MAL for Student/Trainee Development, Megan has been a persistent and effective supporter of student and trainee needs, and she has worked seamlessly with the Student Advisory Board. We appreciate all she has done to ensure inclusive and accessible programming for our trainees.
Melissa Santos, PhD – Melissa has made an enduring impact over six years as President of SPP and previously as MAL for Diversity. She spearheaded anti-racism and social justice efforts, initiated financial stewardship, and restructured the board for efficiency and effectiveness, among many other things. Her dedication to SPP has been limitless!
Terry Stancin, PhD – As APA Council Representative for six years, Terry has been a tireless advocate on behalf of children and families. She has sponsored and contributed to numerous business items and resolutions in council, including care of transgender and gender diverse youth, as well as global girls’ and women’s rights. Terry has been highly respected for her wisdom on the board, and she will continue as the liaison to COPACHF through June 2025.
Colleen Stiles-Shields, PhD – As APA Program Chair, Colleen put her organizational skills and energy into creating an incredible program in Seattle this year. She walked a million steps (always with a smile) and made sure everything ran smoothly. Many thanks to Colleen for her hard work, as well as co-chairing APA 2023 in DC!
Idia Thurston, PhD – Idia has served on the board for six years as APA Council Representative and previously as MAL for Student/Trainee Development. Idia has been a fierce advocate and voice for social justice and equity in both of her roles. She has effectively sponsored and supported multiple resolutions adopted by council, including statements on immigrant health, trauma recovery, and the Israel/Gaza call for a ceasefire. Her infectious energy and joy are always directed at doing what is right!
Incoming Board Members
Lori Crosby, PsyD – President-Elect
Elizabeth Getzoff, PhD - APA Council Representative
Jeanette Iskander, PhD – Member at Large for Student/Trainee Development
Christina Low Kapalu, PhD - APA Council Representative
Naadira Upshaw, PsyD, ABPP – Member at Large for Diversity
Chimereodo Okoroji, PhD - APA Program Co-Chair
Thank you to the entire SPP Board of Directors for their dedication, passion, and service to pediatric psychology. It has been a privilege to work with this brilliant, tireless, selfless, and fun-loving group! We encourage all our members to consider serving, or please nominate a respected colleague for the 2025 election!