Good day, Cardinals! How are you all doing? There’s so much happening around us – in the world, in the country, and within our department. I know it can feel overwhelming, and like many of you, I’m navigating it all alongside you.

Let me begin by acknowledging the current political and social climate. While I can’t predict exactly where things will stand by the time this newsletter reaches you, I want to emphasize that, despite the challenges, our work remains incredibly important. In times like these, the value of our department’s focus on cultural competence and social justice shines even brighter. We have always embraced the responsibility to push for positive change, and I believe that our commitment to these values will continue to guide us through uncertain times.

I’ve received many questions about the impact of recent shifts in Washington, DC, and Indianapolis, especially regarding our ability to conduct research, provide ethical clinical services, secure grant funding, and deliver the high-quality education we strive for. Additionally, there are concerns about post-degree job opportunities, and I’ve even heard some wondering about the future of our department. I know these changes feel daunting, but we are not facing them alone. We’ve built a strong foundation, and our shared commitment to one another and to the field will see us through.

I’ve also had conversations with prospective students, including a number of candidates for our doctoral program, who are understandably curious about the future. The fact that they are still eager to join us speaks volumes about the resilience of our community. They want to be part of the work we’re doing, and that’s something to be celebrated.

Though I don’t have all the answers and can’t predict exactly how things will unfold, I remain hopeful. Over the course of more than 40 years in this field, I’ve seen us face adversity and come out stronger. We’ve weathered difficult times before, and each challenge has made us more resilient. It’s true that the next few months and years may bring their share of challenges, but I didn’t choose this field because it was easy—I chose it because I believe in the difference we can make.

So, I ask that each of you continue doing what you do best: work toward making the world better, even if it’s in small, everyday ways. Listen to your students, clients, and colleagues as they navigate the terrain. Reach out to your local and national politicians to share your thoughts, and offer assistance. Work with your local and national professional associations as they carry our message forward; they are the lobbying body for our respective professions. Each association of which I am a member has issued a statement; track them closely.  Together, we will keep moving forward. And we will continue to serve as a beacon of hope and progress, no matter what comes our way.

In other news, there are three changes happening this spring, one expected and two surprises. First, the expected: Dr. Kite’s retirement. She has been a major influence in two academic departments and several other units on campus. She has been a leader in multiple professional associations. She literally “wrote the book” used by professors around the country. As I said to a student once, several years ago, Dr. Kite will not tell you this but she is absolutely a big deal in the field of social psychology. We have been fortunate to have her finish her academic career with our department, and we wish her well in the next stage of her travels.

Similarly, two other changes are happening after this semester. Dr. Tatum announced that he is leaving BSU for Illinois State University. He, too, is leaving a significant mark on the department. Between the courses he’s taught and creating the sex therapy cognate, not to mention getting students to attend both MPA and AASECT,  Dr. Tatum has been a sought-after mentor for master’s and doctoral students. He, too, will leave a void in the department. I guess the positive note is that he can save wear and tear on his car with all those trips down to Muncie from Chicago! The final change does not mean a departure, but it does mean a change in title and location. The Counseling Practicum Clinic has been in search of more faculty support in its day-to-day activities. We are pleased to state that Dr. Lee will be moving into the position of Associate Clinical Faculty and Associate Clinical Director of the CPC beginning in August 2025. He and Dr. Burkhart have been busy making plans; the future of the CPC is in great hands.

Best wishes to you as we move deeper into 2025.

Dr. Bowman

“Do not fear to be eccentric in opinion, for every opinion now accepted was once eccentric.” Bertrand Russell