Congrats, Lauren!
Monthly Archives: April 2014
Sara Dorrance Receives Summer Scholar Award
Sara Dorrance received a summer scholar award to investigate the benefits of time away from technology on psychological and physical outcomes in college students. She will be working with Dr. Denise Friedman this summer to design and pilot her study.
Recognizing Graduationg Senior – Taylor McCabe
I have had such a great experience my four years at Roanoke College. I have made unforgettable memories and have made many life long friendships here at Roanoke. I could not be more excited to start the next chapter in my life!
Recognizing Graduating Senior – Alison Sumbs
What actor is your professor?
Dr. Allen: Helena Bonham Coato
Dr. Buchholz: Daniel Craig
Dr. Camac: Jamie Lee Curtis
Dr. Day: Cate Blanchett
Dr. DeMarce: Liv Tyler
Dr. Early: Richard Gere
Dr. Friedman: Jennifer Lawrence
Prof. Friedman: Vince Vaughn
Dr. Lynch: Meryl Streep
Dr. Nichols: Jim Parsons
Prof. Nichols: Julia Roberts
Dr. Osterman: Louis Ck
Dr. Pranzarone: Robert Deniro
Dr. Shenal: Hugh Laurie
Dr. Whitson: Michael Caine
Recognizing Graduating Senior – Miranda Brizendine
“Miranda graduated in December with BA in PSYC and a concentration in elementary education. She was very active at Roanoke, participating in her sorority, working for the registrar’s office, and serving as an SGA senator. The skills she built will serve her well in the school system!” ~Dr. Denise Friedman, Psychology Chairperson
PSYC Major, Kayla Sutherland, to Pursue Masters at Radford University
Kayla Sutherland will attend Radford University to obtain her Masters in Counseling and Human Development. Congrats!
Recognizing Graduating Senior – Kati Webb
“Kati is an amazing young woman. She is bright, funny, smart, and talented, making you ask how she balances it all and keeps such a sunny disposition. Kati is currently completing an internship with Commonwealth Catholic Charities in preparation for pursuing adoption counseling.” ~Dr. Denise Friedman, Psychology Chairperson
Recognizing Graduating Senior – Devon Huddleston
“Devon balanced field hockey, DG, and her studies during her time at RC. Devon has killer focus and positivity – qualities that will serve her well. ” ~Dr. Denise Friedman, Academic Advisor
Recognizing Graduating Senior – Lauren Kennedy
“Lauren has really made the most of her time as a psychology/neuroscience student at RC, doing an independent study here, a research practicum at the Salem VA Hospital, and an internship at the VTCRI. Her drive will take her far in life.” ~Dr. David Nichols, Research Mentor
Recognizing Graduating Senior – Nikki Hurless
“Nikki has been a fantastic student and a joy to have around the department. She raised the bar for what it means to be an outstanding psychology/neuroscience student becoming the first RC student to first author a neuroscience journal article while still an undergraduate. Her perseverance and strength will pay off.” ~Dr. David Nichols, Academic Advisor & Research Mentor
Recognizing Graduating Senior – Tabby Collier
“Tabby came to RC focused and determined. She completed her degree in only 3 years with also adding a concentration in Crime, Deviance, and Social Control to prepare her well for a job after graduation.” ~Dr. David Nichols, Academic Advisor
Recognizing Graduating Senior – Adwoa Asante
“Adwoa used her time well at RC to find out more about herself. With a major in Psychology, minor in Religious Studies, and a concentration in Parish Youth Leadership she is well prepared to make a difference in the lives of others.” ~ Dr. David Nichols, Academic Advisor
Psychology Major, Johnzelle Anderson, to Pursue MA at Liberty University
Johnzelle will be pursuing his MA in pastoral counseling at Liberty University. We are so proud of his accomplishments and know he will make a great counselor with superb active listening skills and his easy smile.
Recognizing Graduating Senior – Johnzelle Anderson
“Johnzelle is known for his warm heart and friendly smile. He is mature beyond his years and will succeed in life.” ~ Dr. David Nichols, Academic Advisor
Why the Liberty shirt, you ask? Because Johnzelle is headed there for graduate school!
Recognizing Graduating Senior – Tayler Kiser
“Tayler is one of the brightest students to come through the RC psychology department in recent years though many may not know that because of her quiet and unassuming nature. She has been focused on working in the Library Sciences for years and her opportunity will be coming soon with successful acceptance into graduate school.” ~ Dr. David Nichols, Academic Advisor
We opened the suggestion box and here’s what you had to say:
“Put a trash can in the student lounge.” Done. Yay! I am glad we got one easy one.
“Add a forensic psychology class.” This is not the first time we have heard this request. We currently have two grads working the FBI and another interning with Homeland Security. Given the growing popularity of this subfield, we are looking into whether we add forensic psychology as a special topics course. We will talk to other interested disciplines and examine professor expertise and the current courses offered to see if it can fit. We also have to get approval from administration.
“Add a class on romantic relationships as people like to learn about themselves.” We have discussed adding classes on emerging adulthood (18-25) and romantic relationships. It is likely this will happen in the next few years as we are looking to expand the psychology faculty which will allow those of us with that expertise to teach these special topic courses. Of course, we have balance these classes with requirements so you can graduate!
“Demand more respect from other science departments.” We get it. Psychology is a science but is not always recognized or respected as such. We are proud of student and faculty accomplishments and are proud to note that we are to be included in the new science center complex. It is said that respect is earned, but we know stereotypes and preexisting biases make it hard to change opinions. We will continue to work hard and celebrate successes. If you have other ideas, feel free to share them!
“Add a minor in special education.” While we can cover special education topics in some of our classes, we are not an education department. The school has to meet certain accreditation standards and faculty have to have a certain expertise to teach specific classes. We can certainly talk about special education issues as they are relevant to learning, development, etc., but we are not the right department for starting a minor or concentration. Talking to education would a good start.
Thanks for all the great suggestions! Please note we are working hard to serve your needs and always want to hear your voice. We have certain limitations that we have to work inside of but if we don’t know what you want, we can’t even try to make it happen.
Departmental Kudos – Student Assistants
“The student assistants are great!” – Student comment
“The student assistants keep us sane – we laugh, we smile, we make it happen!” – Faculty comment
Departmental Kudos – Dr. Buchholz
Student comment:
“Dr. Friedman and Dr. Buchholz are super supportive and helpful. :)”
Departmental Kudos – Warning: Oxytocin May Be Released
“Each and every one of the psych profs are kind, helpful, and overall amazing. Don’t think your dedication and hard work goes unnoticed. We love you all.” – Student comment
Departmental Kudos – Dr. Osterman
Dr. Osterman pictured with Jessica Gladfelter, RCPA Vice President
Student comment:
“Dr. Osterman is an amazing QM prof. She makes stats fun.”
A Normal Day in the PSYC Department
Lauren Kennedy carries her MMC coffee and a cockroach in a jar.
Recognizing Graduating Senior – Kati Hurt
“Kati is a passionate young woman who isn’t afraid to speak her mind. She completed an internship Carilion Behavioral Clinic and plans to become an LPC. Her drive will take her far in life!” ~ Dr. Denise Friedman, Department Chair
Departmental Kudos – Dr. Friedman
Dr. Friedman pictured with Carolyn Miesen and Jessica Gladfelter, members of her research lab
Students Comments:
“Dr. Friedman has gone above and beyond as my advisor! She inspires me to be the best I can.”
“Dr. Friedman has had a lot to manage this semester and has been great at it. She is an amazing chair.”
“Dr. Friedman and Dr. Buchholz are super supportive and helpful. :)”
Departmental Kudos – Ellen Dyer
Student comments:
“Mrs. Ellen Dyer is great and helpful!”
“Ellen always has a smile on her face and brightens everyone’s day. She is the best!”
Departmental Kudos – Dr. Early
Student comment:
“Dr. Early is the reason I declared my PSYC major. He’s so excited about topics and so knowledgeable.”
Alum Breanna Wright Accepted to PhD Program at Stony Brook University
Breanna Wright received a full assistantship and summer compensation to attend Stony Brook University where she will pursue a PhD in Political Science. Breanna is specifically interested in political psychology which she was the focus of her honors in the major project. Dr. Friedman and Breanna are preparing her honors paper for publication now.
Recognizing Graduating Senior – Liz Poston
Recognizing Graduating Senior – Lizzie Hord
“Lizzie is a fighter; in the face of life’s challenges, she has persevered with grace. She is funny, kind, and she can dominate some karaoke!” ~ Dr. Chris Buchholz, Academic Advisor & Research Mentor
Recognizing Graduating Senior – Sarah Ellison
“Sarah is one of the kindest individuals you will ever meet. Her empathy is unparalleled. I love that she always shares good news, finds a positive spin, or provides a hug when there are no words. I know she will be a wonderful educator!” ~ Academic Advisor, Dr. Denise Friedman
Psych students elected to PBK
“Founded in 1776 by students at the College of William and Mary, Phi Beta Kappa is recognized as the oldest, largest and most prestigious honor society in the nation. PBK’s main objective is to emphasize the importance of a liberal arts and sciences while also recognizing those who strive for excellence in academics.” This year, the psychology department had several students selected to join the ranks of PBK.
Congratulations to:
Elizabeth Evans
Nikki Hurless
Lauren Kennedy
Tayler Kiser
Dana Averill
We are proud of your accomplishments!
Recognizing Graduating Senior – Kayla Flippen
“Kayla managed to balance leadership roles in ASA and the Panhellenic Council and make honor roll during her time at RC. Her engagement, passion, and smile will be missed.” – Academic Advisor, Dr. Denise Friedman
Recognizing Graduating Senior – Carolyn Miesen
“Carolyn is the ultimate achiever! You rarely see one person juggle so much so successfully. She traveled abroad to study in Australia and came back with a passion for research. Balancing research in two domains, she accomplished more in a year than most do in 4 years. I anticipate she will have her first manuscript under review before graduation! I know she will thrive in the masters program at JMU.” – Academic Advisor & Research Mentor, Dr. Denise Friedman
Recognizing Graduating Senior – Tiara Mehic
“Tiara is amazing. Her wit and fire make a force to be reckoned with. Seeing her present at a conference or participate in a class debate truly exemplifies the RC ideal for students. I will miss having coffee with her and discussing ethical and philosophical issues.” – Academic Advisor, Dr. Denise Friedman
The votes are in…You named the psych faculty superhero alter egos as
Dr. Allen: God
Dr. Buchholz: Spiderman
Dr. Camac: WonderWoman
Dr. Day: Rogue
Dr. DeMarce: Electra
Dr. Early: Captain America
Dr. Friedman: Hulk
Prof. Friedman: IronMan
Dr. Lynch: Black Widow
Dr. Nichols: Inspector Gadget
Prof. Nichols: BatGirl
Dr. Osterman: CatWoman
Dr. Pranzarone: AquaMan
Dr. Shenal: BatMan
Dr. Whitson: Thor
Check back later for our superhero picture.