Provost Wendi Williams, Ph.D., Provides Opening Remarks for Psychologists in Racial Justice Conference

Provost Wendi Williams, Ph.D., Provides Opening Remarks for Psychologists in Racial Justice Conference

Provost and Senior Vice President Wendi S. Williams, Ph.D., gave opening remarks for the inaugural Psychologists in Racial Justice Conference on March 15.

The conference’s theme was “If Race is a Social Construction, Why Does It Matter So Much?” Conference topics included addressing and challenging whiteness in training and practice, making race and racism explicit in mental health practice, research for racial justice, breakout sessions, and more.

The Psychologists for Racial Justice is a collection of psychologists trained in the tradition of Dr. Janet E. Helms, creator of the theories of racial identity development. 

“Dr. Janet E. Helms is a trailblazer in the field of psychology,” said Provost Williams. “She formulated the first and seminal theories on racial identity development for all people. Her work is foundational to the ways we think about adult identity development. Knowing oneself and how we fit into the larger context aligns with Fielding’s social and ecological justice values and our mission to prepare adult learners who will change the world and start where they are.”