by Candice Turner, Psy.D.

Happy December, dear community!

Despite a trying year on a social, political, and financial level, our organization has begun to pick up some steam, and, I think, started to shake off the dust from COVID. We have welcomed several new committee chairs and members, increased our attendance at events and programming, and started to see membership grow again. And many of our committee members have committed to yet another year and for that, we are so grateful! I would like to take this opportunity to thank our community for staying engaged and writing in with your ideas and interests. This really helps us understand you and create the kind of programming and content that meets the community's needs; thank you! Additionally, I want to publicly thank our Board and Committee Members for working through the unique challenges we have faced these past few years, seeing the bigger picture of what NCSPP means to our community and profession, and continuing to show up with hope, fresh ideas, and smiles. It all matters, and I am so grateful for you! 

On to the bad news…Next year, we will sadly say goodbye to two Past Presidents who have put in countless hours for this community, Drs. Tanisha Stewart and Willow Banks. We have worked together for the past 6 years, and I have grown to really adore these two; not seeing their faces every month will be a huge loss. Unfortunately, we will also lose Dr. Ronna Haglili, who has done a wonderful job leading our Education Committee and has been a pleasure to collaborate with. We will miss you all! Thankfully, in 2025 we welcome experienced committee members, Natasha Oxenburgh (Education Chair), Sullivan Oakley (ISG Chair), and a new Treasurer, Dr. Ryan Stubblefield! I really look forward to seeing what we can do together next year. 

Please don’t miss the opportunity to let your hair down with colleagues at our infamously fun Holiday Party on December 13th, 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm at Ramsess Art Garden in Oakland. Ugly sweaters are optional. I’ll see you there!