In early June, APA was proud to join the Association of VA Psychologist Leaders and APA’s Div. 18 (Psychologists in Public Service) to co-sponsor the 25th Annual VA Psychology Leadership Conference in San Antonio titled “Together Again: Recharging Our Community and Reimagining Our Next 25 years as Psychology Leaders.” APA CEO Arthur C. Evans, Jr., PhD, who was raised in a military family, presented the keynote address on how the association strives to improve lives and best represent psychologists. Evans stressed the importance of psychologists’ advocacy on topics such as gun violence prevention and outlined other APA priorities from setting standards and offering evidence-based guidance to preparing the profession through training and credentialing to focusing on population health and equity. His address imparted how applying psychological science is beneficial to everything from the pursuit of justice to encouraging vaccine uptake.
Another keynote speaker was APA’s Chief Diversity Officer, Maysa Akbar, PhD, ABPP, who spoke to VA psychology leaders about her personal experiences with resilience and the best way to move forward in difficult times. Her presentation was a testament to allyship and empowering others, while acknowledging the responsibility of systems to break down barriers to care. APA’s Chief of Professional Practice Jared Skillings, PhD, also presented on the future of psychology practice, highlighting innovation, advocacy, and ethics.
The 3-day event also included a “fireside chat” with VA Deputy Secretary Donald Remy and Deputy Chief of Staff Chris Diaz, and many other presentations from VA leadership. More information and links to presentation slides.
For more information, contact: K. Conwell Smith