APA will open the ballots for Divison Elections in April2025. At that time, Divison members will receive an email from APA to vote in the election. In the meanwhile, Division 52 is proud to announce its candidates for elected positions in the Divsion and to post their candidate statements.
Open positions for 2024 (to assume office in January, 2025) include:
- President Elect – Candidates – Debbie Best, PhD; Theophilus Lazarus, PhD; Carlos Zalaquett, PhD
- Secretary – Candidates – Ted Bartholomew, PhD; Hanlie Van Wyk
- VP for Initiatives – Candidates – Juan Nel, PhD, Maryam Tafreshi, PhD
- VP for Communication – Candidates – Joyce Green, PhD
CANDIDATES FOR PRESIDENT-ELECT
Duties: Serves one year as President-Elect, one year as President, and one year as immediate Past President. The duties of the President-Elect are to work collaboratively with the “Presidential Trio” (past-current-elect) to provide continuity in the implementation of the Division 52 strategic plan. The President-Elect also serves as Co-Chair with the Past President of the Strategic Planning Committee and participates actively in Division committees on awards and nominations as well as the Board and the Presidential Advisory Committee.
Debbie Best, PhD
Wake Forest University
Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
Candidate Statement
Having served as Department Chair and first woman Dean of the College at Wake Forest University, as well as President of several research organizations (International Association for Cross-Cultural Psychology, Society for Cross-Cultural Research) and as Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Cross-Cultural Psychology, I understand the value of teamwork for solving problems and achieving goals. When I served as Vice President of Communication for APA Division 52 (2020-2022), I regularly brought together the Editors of the International Perspectives in Psychology, the International Psychology Bulletin, and Division 52 social media and webpage to create more effective communication with members and other scholars. I would be honored to serve as President, and I would work to build networks across officers, committees, and other members of Division 52 to enhance the global perspective of psychological science and practice.
Theophilus Lazarus, PhD
Candidate Statement
My experiences in growing up in South Africa, a country that was marked by systemic racism, experiencing first-hand the punitive laws based on race and class, led me to study Psychology after completing a Pre-Med programme. My experiences in developing programs incorporating the needs of a multicultural society with 12 official languages and multiple cultural groups, whilst also experiencing doctoral and post-doctoral work in USA and UK are foundational blocks to my broad base of culturally-sensitive knowledge that will shape my leadership of Division 52 now aptly names Global Psychology. Facing the threats of apartheid police whilst studying and teaching at a segregated university in South Africa prompted the development of resilience, common in communities with adverse circumstances. The vision of a nonracial, non-sexist and democratic, multi-cultural society in South Africa has been central to my teaching, researching and supervision of students in Psychology over 40 years, some of whom are now working in USA, Canada, UK, Mexico, Kenya, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, India and Malaysia. It is becoming increasing evident that the disparities in knowledge generation across global societies is stark, as more than 70% of the world population encounter daily experiences that are not consistent with mainstream psychology. Decolonizing knowledge is a buzzword in the Global South with limitations of existing knowledge applications to diverse societies. As Division 52 members, Dr Antonio E Puente and I presented a paper in South Africa in February 2019, entitled, ‘Decolonization of Psychology in South Africa: The case for Neuropsychology’, proposed culture-sensitive assessment and interventions for seizure disorders. How much more is our Division needed to support and enhance health interventions? Our recommendations were acknowledged and incorporated by medical practitioners. The role and power of indigenous knowledge when treating medical, psychiatric and psychological patients is now part of the management in many communities. History suggests that exclusion of large global populations, consciously or subconsciously, from psychology has come full circle as ‘Global South’ countries rally with their own indigenous models of research and interventions. Indeed, more than 80% of the world’s population live outside the traditional sample description of psychology studies, i.e., White, middle class, educated and democratic, and of course mostly male-oriented. As the world polarizes along socio-political lines, it is incumbent on psychologists to heed their professional calling–to search for an inclusive, non-judgmental, knowledge-seeking and cultural and language sensitive approach in research and interventions. Whilst traditional Western approaches tend to be individualistic, the benefits of Non-western community living, prioritizing social relationships across generations that form the foundation of knowledge should be further explored with obvious broad benefit to societal structures, including financial upliftment, as reflected in the proverb, “it takes a village to raise a child”. My research shows that the delicate balance between traditions of extended societies such community elders with new traditions in personal and community development in its broadest sense constitutes the foundation for strong and tolerant families and communities, and ultimately societies. I believe this is an aspiration of Division 52 (Global Psychology), resonating with my own views which I hope to continue nurturing and amplifying through my network of colleagues, politicians and communities across many countries.
Carlos Zalaquett, PhD
Penn State University
College Park, Pennsylvania, USA
Candidate Statement
I am honored to be nominated for the position of President-Elect of APA Division 52 The Society for Global Psychology. As a professor at Penn State and a lifelong advocate for global psychology, I am eager to bring my experience, vision, and dedication to this role.
My work across diverse cultural contexts has fostered international collaborations and promoted culturally inclusive practices in psychology. As past president of the Sociedad Interamericana de Psicología (SIP), long serving member of the Global Psychology Alliance (GPA), and organizer of international conferences, including Division 52’s annual conferences and Global Dialogues-Dialogos Globales (GD-DG), I have developed the leadership skills needed to guide Division 52 into a future of greater global impact.
I am proud to report I was one of the architects of the inclusion of Spanish only presentations, a first for APA, the develop of the upcoming videos from the GD-DG, among other current contributions.
If elected, my priorities will include:
- Strengthening International Collaborations: Expanding partnerships with global psychologists and organizations to address global challenges and share innovative practices.
- Promoting Diversity and Inclusion: Ensuring Division 52 remains a welcoming space for all psychologists, fostering cross-cultural dialogue.
- Advancing Research and Practice: Bridging the gap between research and practice, with a focus on culturally informed interventions.
- Engaging the Next Generations: Mentoring emerging psychologists to shape the future of global psychology.
Together, we can amplify the voice of psychology within APA and globally. Thank you for your consideration and support. I look forward to the possibility of serving as your president.
Warm regards,
Carlos Zalaquett, Ph.D.
CANDIDATES FOR SECRETARY
Duties: The Secretary serves a term of three (3) years. The duties of the Secretary are: (a) To maintain a comprehensive, accurate and accessible record of all official Division proceedings, rosters, records, timelines and materials and to ensure appropriate processes of documentation, review and approval; (b) To maintain the Division Handbook in coordination with the Strategic Planning Committee to assure that Division decisions and rules of procedure are properly recorded and maintained in the Handbook; (c). To maintain coordination between the Division and the Central Office of APA; (d) To issue a call for items and coordinate production of Board and Member meeting agendas and agenda books. v. Further tasks and duties are specified in the Division Handbook.
Ted Bartholomew, PhD
Scripps College
Claremont, California, USA
Candidate Statement
I am honored to be considered for Secretary of Division 52. The division has long been a scholarly home for me – I published my first peer-reviewed paper in the inaugural issue of International Perspectives in Psychology in 2012 and have continued to submit and publish my work there since. I joined as a graduate student affiliate and am now a Fellow of the division. I see the intention of the Society for Global Psychology as an academic space where efforts to understand global, cultural, and cross-cultural psychology are centered such that empirical and theoretical work can be shared for those who engage in practice and consultation globally.
My prior experiences as Treasurer of Division 17’s international section as well as Secretary, Vice-President, President, and Past-President of the Society for Cross-Cultural Research. I hope, in this position, to contribute effectively to the growth of Division 52, and I will advocate for a global psychology that is attentive to within-group and culture uniqueness and the need for further connecting with our colleagues around the globe.
Hanlie Van Wyk
University of South Africa
Candidate Statement
Witnessing the transformative period following South Africa’s first free and fair election in 1994 profoundly impacted my worldview and the importance of value systems that emphasize the interconnectedness of individuals with their surrounding societal and physical worlds. My experiences and research have further equipped me with a deep understanding of the complexities of international psychology, aligning with Division 52’s mission to promote global perspectives and culturally inclusive practices.
As Secretary, I will ensure efficient record-keeping, transparent communication, and seamless coordination of Division activities. I am committed to fostering collaboration among psychologists worldwide, supporting the internationalization of psychology curricula, and enhancing opportunities for mentorship and research. My vision is to strengthen Division 52’s role as a global leader in psychology, advocating for human dignity, justice, and the public interest. I am eager to contribute to the Division’s growth and to serve its members with dedication and integrity. Together, we can advance the field of international psychology and make a meaningful impact on a global scale. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you should I be elected.
CANDIDATES FOR VICE-PRESIDENT FOR COMMUNICATION
Duties: The Vice President of Engagement serves a term of 3 years. The duties of the Vice President for Engagement are to facilitate and support Division activities and standing committees focused on membership recruitment and retention, engagement, outreach, liaison activities, and student and ECP activities. The VP of engagement will also participate on the Presidential Advisory Committee, representing the actions and concerns within the scope of their respective areas of purview.
Joyce Green, PhD
Loyola Marymount University
Los Angeles, California, USA
Candidate Statement
I am honored to accept the nomination for Vice President of Communications and Publications for Division 52 for a second term. Over the past three years, I have committed to strengthening and expanding our communications and publications efforts, leading initiatives that have enhanced our visibility, engagement, and impact. I have worked to build a dedicated communications team, streamline our messaging across platforms, and drive the rebranding of Division 52 as we transition to the Society for Global Psychology. These efforts have laid a strong foundation, and it is crucial that this work continues with steady leadership and vision.
If elected, I will ensure the seamless rollout of our new name and brand across all communication channels, reinforcing our identity and broadening our reach. I will also continue expanding our social media strategy to foster deeper engagement, amplify global psychology discourse and collaboration, and connect with a wider audience. Additionally, I will remain actively involved in strengthening our publication efforts, including supporting the search for the next journal editor to maintain the highest standards of scholarship and global inclusivity. The work we have begun is making good progress, and continuity in leadership is essential to sustaining momentum to achieve our long-term goals. I am excited about the opportunity to continue this work and to further elevate our communications and publications and establish cohesion.
Thank you for your consideration and support. I look forward to the possibility of continuing this important work.
CANDIDATES FOR VICE-PRESIDENT FOR INITIATIVES
Duties: The Vice President for Initiatives serves for a term of three (3) years. The duties of the Vice President for Initiatives include: Facilitate and support activities, collaborations, partnerships, programs, and projects that are designed to further the mission, vision, and values of the Division, within the Division, within APA, and external to APA; Participate on the Presidential Advisory Committee, representing the actions and concerns within the scope of their respective areas of purview.
Juan Nel, PhD
Candidate Statement
I am confident that I am well-equipped for the position of Vice President of Initiative for the Division 52. Should I be elected, I will bring to bear skills I have honed over almost 40 years. Active in the Psychological Society of South Africa (PsySSA) since its inception, my service in the PsySSA Presidency (2013 – 2016), in particular, entrenched me in meaningful contributions to our science, discipline and practice. Since 2007, I am the PsySSA representative on the International Psychology Network for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex Issues (IPsyNet). I serve on the SA National Committee for the International Union of Psychological Science (IUPsyS), and the PsySSA Council’s International Relations Standing Committee. In 2024, I chaired the Congress organising committee of the International Network for Hate Studies. These and other positions have afforded me a truly global perspective.
My scholarship and community-focused engagement centre the lived experiences, health and wellbeing of those on the margins. Passionate about social justice, equality, human rights, and enhanced healthcare provision, my sustained leadership efforts have directly contributed to the establishment of three sectors in SA: i) Victim Empowerment; ii) LGBTQIA+; and iii) the Hate Crimes sector. I am a founding member of eight related SA government-led and civil society structures. Through international collaborations, I, in particular, contribute to LGBTQIA+ affirmative healthcare. Notably, my work has informed policy debates and practices, influencing significant legal reforms, policy documents, and guidelines and tools that enhance inclusivity and ethical practice in Law, Psychology and healthcare.
Maryam Tafreshi, PhD
Saybrook University
Oakland, California, USA
Candidate Statement
My education and skills in International Psychology (IP, Ph.D.) and my international and professional experiences have equipped me to lead in multicultural settings, creating an inclusive, trusting, compassionate, and safe collaborative space where members are supported to use their unique strengths for reaching their shared goals. I encourage and welcome flexible, new, and creative ways of thinking while addressing global issues and achieving goals through a multilevel, multifactor, and multidisciplinary lens, an IP lens and approach.
As an International Psychologist, I am trained to address global, international, national, and systems/organizational issues. I have learned how to work through uncertainty, chaos, and constant change while holding space for multiple perspectives and considering the needs of all stakeholders. Living for 13.5 years as an expatriate in Chile, Brazil, Singapore, China, and Dubai, besides living in Iran and the U.S., has refined my knowledge, skills, and attitudes to work with diverse groups in diverse settings.
I have the knowledge and skills to work with different leadership styles in different cultural and multicultural contexts. As a professor at the Mind-Body Medicine Department of Saybrook University, I have taught several leadership courses, including how to lead as a Mindful-Compassionate-Selfless Leader (MCS Leadership), a leadership style I embody. Due to my IP background, I have been invited to collaborate with a faculty and their students at the Department of Clinical Psychology: Creativity, Innovation, and Leadership Specialization at Saybrook University. Furthermore, for the last two and a half years, I have been the co-chair of the APA DIV52- Human Rights, Peace, and Global Well-Being Special Interest Group. I have been in this position since we initiated this special interest group with my colleagues under the leadership of Dr. Mc Grath, the VP of engagement of APA-DIV52.
As demonstrated above and in my bio, my skills, knowledge, and experiences match the responsibilities that the VP of initiative needs to carry – allowing me to offer new, creative ways of thinking for solving issues, reaching our goals, and supporting the expansion of our potential, while collaborating and supporting our presidential trio and all our stakeholders.
I appreciate your time reading my candidate- statement.
Kind Regards,
Dr. Maryam N. Tafreshi