Nationally-known Psychologists Inspire Audience to Create Change

Palo Alto University (PAU) was honored to host a nationally-touring, multi-media event, “I am Psyched,” that illuminated the history, challenges and contributions of women of color in psychology. The event, which attracted a full house of 200 150 attendees, was held June 8 at the Los Alto History Museum.

A highlight of the event was a panel moderated by PAU President Maureen O’Connor, Ph.D., J.D. that featured three, nationally-known women of color psychologists:

• Dr. Melba Vasquez: 2011 president of the APA (American Psychological Association) and co-founder of APA divisions 45, 56 and the National Multicultural Conference and Summit
• Dr. Christine Iijima Hall: former director of Ethnic Minority Affairs for APA and the first female president of the Asian American Psychological Association
• Dr. Wizdom Powell: former White House fellow, associate professor, and director of the University of Connecticut Health Disparities Institute

The panel shined a light on the ethnic and cultural diversity of the field of psychology as well as the diversity within psychologists themselves. The panelists told inspiring stories of how psychology is used to improve lives and create positive change in all communities. "We honor women of color working in the field of psychology and mental health, and appreciate the significant contribution they are making in psychological science, practice, and social justice,” says Joyce Chu, Ph.D., Co-Director of the Center for Excellence in Diversity at Palo Alto University, where she is also faculty chair and an associate professor.

About Palo Alto University’s Center for Excellence in Diversity
Palo Alto University’s Center for Excellence in Diversity initiates, coordinates, and promotes activities that enhance PAU as a national resource for culturally competent research, training, and services for diverse or underserved populations, primarily in the realm of psychology, counseling, and mental health. The Center aims to facilitate local and national leadership and recognition of diversity efforts; promote, support, and provide opportunities for concentrated research, training, or services related to diverse populations; and serve as a resource for mentorship and professional development for students and professionals who identify as, or are dedicated to the service of, diverse or underserved populations. (paloaltou.edu/improving-lives/diversity-excellence)