Summer 2021 News & Highlights from Psychology

Photo of apple blossoms

Greetings from the Department of Psychology! As another academic year comes to an end, I am already excited for the upcoming fall semester. Given the progress with vaccinations, the University is planning for an in-person return in August/September. I am looking forward to seeing colleagues and students face-to-face once again, and I hope that all of you are starting to experience somewhat of a return to normalcy.

Despite the hardships brought about by the pandemic, as well as those revealed by the murder of George Floyd and the subsequent trial of Derek Chauvin, our students, staff, faculty, and alumni have continued to do amazing work and show incredible commitment to making our world a more equitable and inclusive place for all. 

I am sure you will enjoy reading in this newsletter about the journey and impactful work of Christina Granquist (BS '13). Granquist, who lost her sight at the time she was working in the Minnesota Laboratory for Low Vision Research with Distinguished McKnight University Professor Gordon Legge, is now an assistant vice president and accessibility consultant at U.S. Bank—a connection she made when helping to run a bank-funded study in Gordon’s lab.

Also in this issue, you will have the opportunity to learn more about the personal story and advocacy of recent psychology graduate Manyi Ayuk (BS '21). Ayuk was awarded a Sue W. Hancock SEEDs of Change Award (Scholarly Excellence in Equity and Diversity) in 2020 from the Office for Equity and Diversity. This annual award is given to undergraduate students who are advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion through their academic achievement, community outreach and engagement, and leadership services. Ayuk is doing just that through her research and involvement on campus.

Finally, I want to note the recent passing of psychology alum David Campbell (PhD ‘60). Many of you may recognize Campbell’s name from his time as director of both the University’s Student Counseling Bureau (now University Student Counseling Services) and the Center for Interest Measurement Research in the Department of Psychology. Additionally, he co-authored the Strong-Campbell Interest Inventory, which is widely used in vocational counseling. Dr. Campbell also provided funds for our department’s Campbell Graduate Research Fellowship, which has allowed our graduate students to travel to international conferences to present their research for many years. I invite you to read more about his legacy and impact. 

In closing, I wish everyone the best as we head into summer. I hope that you will have plenty of time for some rest and fun. Stay safe and I look forward to reconnecting with you—hopefully in person—this fall!

Best wishes, 

Jeffry Simpson 
Chair 

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