This address seeks to encapsulate my journey as the Canadian Psychological Association’s (CPA) inaugural Black female president while I navigated the complexities of leadership while championing equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging (EDIB) within the organization. Over the course of a year, I have strategized and implemented initiatives aimed at dismantling systemic barriers , fostering a culture of inclusivity, and amplifying marginalized voices within the CPA community. Through collaborative efforts, I sought to enhance representation, cultivate safe spaces for dialogue, and promote opportunities for underrepresented groups. Facing both triumphs and challenges, I persevered and remained committed to affecting meaningful change during my presidency. I hope that my term serves as a catalyst where there is a shift to a more inclusive future for the CPA and the broader field of psychology.
Eleanor Gittens, Ph.D. is a professor in the honours bachelor’s degree in Police Studies and a program coordinator in the Addictions: Treatment and Prevention program in the Department of Human Services and Community Safety at Georgian College. She has taught courses in Contemporary Social Movements, Psychology for Policing, Research Methods for Policing, Community Policing, Cybercrime, Mental Health Issues in Policing, Cross-Cultural Communications and Addictions and Mental Health. Dr Gittens is an avid researcher who spearheads student-based research with various community partners. She has carried out research on the spatial behaviour of offenders, criminal careers, violent offences, and violent offenders. Her current research interests lie in diversity training, diversity hiring, the development of criminal behaviour and the progression of the criminal career; evidence-based policing; and community policing. She takes pleasure in working closely with other program areas and values the ability to collaborate. Dr Gittens is an advocate and an activist who works tirelessly in the pursuit of equity, human rights, and social justice. She is an active member of the Canadian Psychological Association (CPA) and currently serves as the President and Chair of the CPA Board of Directors.
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