Dr. Arn Froese, chair of Sterling College’s Behavioral Science Department, was named the new President-Elect of the Southwestern Psychological Association in late February. Dr. Froese has been affiliated with the SWPA since 1981, attended its national convention 23 times and presented papers at 13 of them. He has been elected as the SWPA Kansas state representative three times. Former SWPA president Dr. Ken Weaver, Dean at Emporia State University, comments, “How fitting it is to recognize Dr. Froese’s many years of fine service to the SWPA. He has the respect of so many throughout the region because of his proved leadership. This organization is fortunate to have him as its next President.”
Dr. Froese has been a professor at Sterling College since 1974. Dr. Troy Peters, SC Vice President of Academic Affairs, says, “This is a monumental accomplishment. As an institution we congratulate Dr. Froese on a well-deserved honor.” On March 13, Sterling College will hold a reception in Dr. Froese’s honor in the Chandler Boardroom.
“Psychology is my professional passion,” says Dr. Froese. “SWPA has been a significant vehicle for conveying that passion to others. I appreciate it for the opportunities it provides to maintain contact with my colleagues; to meet and hear speakers who broaden my understanding of the discipline; and to demonstrate to my students how professionals interact with each other.” In the 18 years Dr. Froese has been affiliated with the SWPA, he has taken 134 Sterling College students to the annual SWPA convention.
The SWPA was formed in 1953 as a regional affiliate of the American Psychological Association. It covers nine states, although it has international members as well as members from outside the region. At its annual meetings, SWPA offers sessions, workshops, speakers, and symposia all aimed at promoting and strengthening psychology’s scientific, professional, and educational facets. Year round it serves the psychological community by providing access to scientific advances and professional development.