The power of representation - 2021 interviews with Drs. Haynes, Peissig, and Steward

One year ago I had the privilege of interviewing 3 PhD alumni from the Counseling Psychology program in honor of Black History month - Drs. Harriett Haynes, Lovey Peissig, and Jason Steward. I learned about their appreciation and gratitude for the education and training they received in our department, as well as key faculty and staff that helped contribute to their recruitment, retention, and success. But I also learned about what it was like for them to be in a department and professional settings where very few others looked like them. Unlike our usual practice of running stories once, we are sharing these stories again to continue celebrating the accomplishments of black professionals. These stories also help us understand what is at stake in our ongoing work to improve the diversity and equity of our current practice. Thank you again to Harriett, Lovey, and Jason as we recommit to our work as we end another Black History Month. Read more about their experiences, their thoughts on the barriers that keep people out, and the power of representation.

Holley Locher

Chief of Staff