The American Psychological Association has elected Debra Kawahara as its 2025 president. She is the first Asian American woman and the first Japanese American to be APA president.
Kawahara currently serves as an associate dean for academic affairs and a professor at the California School of Professional Psychology, Alliant International University.
According to a press release from the APA, Kawahara earned her Bachelor’s Degree in psychology from the University of California, Los Angeles. She completed her Ph.D. in clinical psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology.
“I am deeply honored to be elected and serve as a leader for this esteemed association,” Kawahara said in a statement. “As APA president, I will work to promote the interests of our members and the broader field of psychology. I will advocate for policies that support our work and ensure that psychologists have a strong voice and visibility to impact society. I will also work to promote diversity, equity and inclusion within our profession and ensure that all members feel welcome and valued.”
Kawahara will serve as president-elect in 2024 before officially becoming president on Jan. 1, 2025.
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