Welcome back, Anselmians, and welcome, Anselmians who join us for your first year on the hilltop this fall! Just as importantly, though, welcome to the Psychology Department Blog. Whether you are a major, a minor or simply someone interested in the fascinating field we study, our blog aims to connect, inform, and engage our readers. Here, you’ll find articles written by professors and students with information about upcoming events, ongoing projects and research from our department, and interesting topics from our field. To start, here are some great opportunities for involvement in the Department of Psychology: Psychology Ambassadors The Psychology Ambassadors are a group of students who represent and are involved in the endeavors of the department. Ambassadors, clothed in spiffy, navy polos, can be seen chatting with potential majors at open houses, giving department tours with faculty members and attending dinners and talks with distinguished guest speakers. Pictured here are the newest inductees to the program: Olivia Griffin, Olivia Thornburg, Steph Conti, Taylor Francis, Lisette Labbe, Maria Soto, Caroline Braverman, Madeline Pratte and Alexis Caldwell, as well as returning ambassadors Richie Curran, Elizabeth Gallagher and Abby Mark. If you are interested in becoming a Psychology Ambassador, keep your eye out for an email announcing the next call for applications. Psi Chi Psi Chi is the International Honor Society of Psychology. It is considered both a

personal honor and a sizable academic achievement to be inducted. Members meet regularly throughout the semester and often attend conferences and annual meetings of organizations such as the New Hampshire Psychology Association, the New England Psychology Association, and even the American Psychological Association. Professor Finn and Professor Ossoff co-sponsor the Chapter on campus, and eligible students are contacted, usually in the spring semester, with information about induction and membership. Psychology Club A unique feature of the Psychology Club is that, unlike the organizations previously mentioned, it is open to anyone regardless of major or academic status. It’s aim is to involve the Saint Anselm College community in our department’s work, something which we hope one and all will feel welcome and encouraged to be a part of. The club meets regularly, organizes, and attends psychology-related events. Guest Speakers Keep an eye out for upcoming speakers on campus. It is no secret that the college community is constantly inundated with e-mails, but if you receive one regarding a guest speaker in Psychology on campus, don’t ignore it! Our very own Department Chair, Professor Ossoff, is scheduled to give an upcoming talk related to the ever-hot election topic. Distinguished psychologists are no stranger to the Saint Anselm College campus, and their talks are relevant, captivating and worth attending for both enjoyment and expanding your academic horizons. Lastly, and importantly, please know that you are always welcome in our department. Barbara’s couches are a comfortable, quiet haven to do homework upon, Professor McKenna’s enthusiastic “Hello!” could be heard from a mile away, and Professor Rickenbach may, if you’re lucky, have baby Jack on her arm walking down the hall. Stop by and say hello sometime. We hope to see you involved in some of our programs and present at some of our exciting events. Lastly, pay a visit to our blog monthly for new posts which are sure to challenge you, interest you and excite you for this year in psychology to come!

Described as a “thoughtful leader” with “a strong commitment to racial justice and positive social change,” Anastasia “Ana” Morrison has been an engaged member of the Saint Anselm College community since she began her college career. 

Saint Anselm students were not going to let a global pandemic prevent them from helping provide meals and clothes to community members who need it most.

“There’s something more lasting about the impact you can have on people versus your research output. I’d rather have one or two people say that an interaction with me helped shape their journey as opposed to having one publication more.”

Check out the various happenings on the Hilltop!

One of Saint Anselm College’s newest programs for first-year students, Hilltop Academy, has taken the summer experience to an exciting new level this year.