Diversity Committee Update

Diversity Committee Update

By Juventino Hernandez Rodriguez, PhD
Member-at-Large: Diversity

The APA conference was fantastic and showcased a dynamic range of diversity-related research and clinical practice initiatives. Sessions on mental health care barriers faced by marginalized youth highlighted ongoing systemic difficulties many families face when trying to access mental health care while sessions on listening to youth highlighted the power of collaboration to improve service delivery systems. The Diversity Committee was thrilled to see many Diversity Professional Development Award winners at the conference. Their dedication and innovative approaches serve as inspiration and help promote equity and inclusion. Overall, the conference and SCCAP-related offerings highlighted the great diversity-focused work being done in our division. Personally, I am excited about the upcoming SCCAP Conference scheduled for June 5-7, 2025. This standalone event promises even more focused discussion on clinical child and adolescent diversity research and clinical practice. The Diversity Committee, in collaboration with the conference committee and LEAD Institute committee, is putting together programming that highlights cutting-edge diversity research, promotes dialogue, and encourages positive change.

The SCCAP Diversity Committee is currently looking for new committee members! Our committee focuses on diversity and multiculturalism initiatives within SCCAP. Some current and past initiatives have focused on developing research awards for student and early career members and enhancing leadership skills. If interested in learning more, please contact me at Juventino.hernandezrodriguez@csun.edu