Office: President-Elect

Candidate Statement: I received my PhD (experimental psychology with a focus on human psychopharmacology) from Columbia University and am currently an Associate Professor at the University of Southern California. My work uses psychopharmacology, Ecological Momentary Assessment, and survey methods to focus on how drug use – both “normal” and problematic – functions in social contexts. My research examines: (1) the bi-directional interactions between acute drug effects and lab-based social settings, and how these interactions contribute to the rewarding effects of drugs; and (2) how friends and family can either help or hinder quit attempts. My work is multidisciplinary as it incorporates collaborations with preclinical, clinical and public health researchers, and is a perfect fit for the mission of APA and Division 28. I have been a member of Division 28 my entire career. The division has been instrumental to my success as a scientist, including recognizing my work through awards (Young Psychopharmacologist Award in 2016), supporting my Fellows election in 2023, and – most importantly – introducing me to group of inspiring, enthusiastic colleagues. For the past 5 years, I have focused on giving back to the division by serving on the Executive Committee as Secretary, and I’m honored that I’m being considered for President Elect. If elected, I plan to continue moving the multi-year initiatives laid out by my predecessors, including maintaining membership and engagement with the division, developing and implementing strategies to further increase diversity in our ranks, and advocating within APA on behalf of our members' concerns and priorities.

Office: Member-at-Large

Candidate Statement: I am currently a Professor and Chair of the Department of Psychological Science at Northern Kentucky University (NKU). My research focuses on the neurobehavioral mechanisms underlying substance use disorders, with an emphasis on how the glutamatergic system mediates addictive-like behaviors and risky choice in animals. I work primarily with undergraduate research assistants, and being able to mentor these students has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. I am also grateful for the students that have been willing to perform animal testing. Without them, I would not have achieved the level of success that I have so far in my career (e.g., three early career awards from Divisions 6, 25, and 28; APA Fellow – Division 25). Since January 2023, I have been the membership coordinator for Division 28. With my current term ending after December 2025, I wish to stay involved with Division 28 as a member-at-large. I believe I am well suited for this role given my current role in Division 28. Additionally, I have been involved with the APA in other roles. I am currently a member-at-large for Division 6, having previously served as one of their Early Career Network Psychologists. I have also chaired a Dissertation Award Subcommittee for Division 25. In addition to my involvement with the APA, I have acquired leadership experience that I believe will help me assume the role of member-at-large for Division 28 (e.g., department chair; Council on Postsecondary Education Leadership Academy; NKU Faculty Senate, etc.).