A graduated vision in sport psychology

I typically teach two to three graduate courses in our Sport and Exercise Psychology Program each semester, along with providing mentorship to our graduate students for their practicum and internships. I have continued to focus my research in the areas of ethics in sport psychology, burnout and youth sport, as well as chairing master's theses. As a program director and graduate program coordinator, I also oversee several administrative responsibilities for our program and graduate studies in our department. As a provisionally licensed mental health professional and CMPC, I also help coordinate and provide mental skills, training consultation and clinical services to student-athletes on campus and in the community.

In addition to several organizational responsibilities, the president is the representative and spokesperson of the society to the membership, public and stakeholders within the sport and performance communities. The president is also the division’s representative to the sport psychology council, which includes representatives from several other organizations with interests in sport, exercise and performance psychology. Finally, the president works to establish and maintain a collaborative relationship with the president of AASP to create shared initiatives that promote the field of sport, exercise and performance psychology. The goals and priorities for my term include the competent and ethical practice of professionals in our field, social activism for marginalized members of the sport, exercise and performance communities and the increased engagement and mentorship of students and early career professionals.

There is no doubt that my time in the Doctoral Sport and Exercise Psychology Program set the career trajectory I have the privilege of enjoying today. The faculty helped me understand that whether we are working behind the scenes or at the forefront in these different leadership roles, each is equally as important, and there are so many critical initiatives these organizations continue to take on. There is a great need for individuals to step forward and contribute time, attention and leadership to support these endeavors and advance our field. As professors Jack Watson, Ed Etzel and Sam Zizzi modeled for me, I hope to do the same for my graduate students. Plus, I was fortunate to have been taught and mentored by exceptional individuals who also modeled what it means to be a good citizen within our field by serving in leadership positions within our professional communities. 

I would always encourage students to remain curious, ask questions and be proactive in their pursuit of information and opportunities. We don't know what we don't know, so the importance of seeking out mentorship and feedback from those who have been and are currently in the field is critical to not only establishing one's professional journey, but also connecting with the many wonderful colleagues in the field. Two of the most valuable resources we can give to our organizations, the field and our students, are time and attention. I would also encourage students to get involved and start giving back early and often.