Public Affairs Sessions

The 2025 APS Public Affairs sessions are designed to empower psychological scientists to navigate the evolving research landscape, connect with funding and advocacy opportunities, and foster dialogue around shared challenges and strategies. This year’s sessions center around four core themes: funding opportunities, science advocacy, public engagement, and resilience in the face of adversity. These conversations aim to support attendees at all career stages and create actionable connections between research and broader societal impact. 

The following is preliminary program information. Please check back regularly for comprehensive details on each session.

Beyond Federal Grants: Connecting Psychological Science with Foundation Funding 

Date: Friday, May 23, 10:30 am to 11:20 am 

Location: Jefferson East 

Session Description: Psychological scientists increasingly look beyond traditional federal funding sources to support their research, community partnerships, and public engagement. This session spotlights foundations that prioritize behavioral and brain science, social equity, and public impact. Attendees will learn what these funders are looking for, how to craft compelling proposals, and how to align their work with the broader missions of private philanthropy. 

Presenters:

James Wilson, Russell Sage Foundation 

Rebecca M. Pasillas, American Psychological Foundation 

Shaping the Future of Psychological Science: Advocacy Organizations and the Research Ecosystem  

Date: Friday, May 23, 3:30 pm to 4:20 pm 

Location: Jefferson East 

Session Description: The production, support, and application of psychological science are shaped by a complex network of advocacy organizations. This session brings together key groups that work to advance psychological science at the national level. Attendees will gain insight into the policy landscape, the role of advocacy in shaping science funding and visibility, and how individual researchers can connect with these efforts to amplify their work and contribute to the field’s collective impact. 

Speakers:

Adriana Bankston, U.S. House of Representatives 

Juliane Baron, Federation of Associations in Behavioral and Brain Sciences  

Marie Coppola, University of Connecticut 

Eleanor Dehoney, Research!America 

Communicating Science: Translating Research for Public Impact 

Date: Saturday, May 24, 10:30 am to 11:20 am 

Location: Fairchild West

Session Description: This session will highlight how psychological scientists are engaging beyond academia to influence public policy, communicate with broader audiences, and shape the role of science in society. Through real life stories, practical strategies, and lessons learned, attendees will explore how to translate their research for policymakers, contribute to public debates, and build bridges between science and civic life. The session will include concrete tools for science communication and advocacy, as well as inspiring examples of researchers making an impact. 

Moderator: Özge G. Fischer-Baum, Association for Psychological Science 

Speakers:

Charles Blue, Communications Strategy Consultant

Matt Sheehan, Center for Public Interest Communications  

Scott Sleek, Independent Communications Consultant 

Entrepreneurial Resilience and Mental Health: New Perspectives and Collaborative Opportunities for Psychological Research  

Date: Saturday, May 24, 1:00 pm – 1:50 pm  

Location: Fairchild West 

Session Description: This symposium explores the critical intersection of entrepreneurship and psychological science, focusing on the well-being and resilience of entrepreneurs navigating today’s dynamic and challenging landscape. We will delve into the unique psychological demands faced by entrepreneurs, including navigating uncertainty, managing stress, and fostering innovation to contribute to a deeper understanding of the psychology behind entrepreneurial success.  

Moderator: Nikki Blacksmith, Symeta  

Speakers:

Ali O’Malley, Reflexion Group  

Brent Goldfarb, University of Maryland 

Shonna Waters, Fractional Insights

Registration, Hotel & Travel Information