The American Psychological Association’s (APA) Division 18 Psychologists in Public Service has shared how the following officers were elected in 2025.
Dr Meera Patel has been appointed Secretary/Treasurer of the Criminal Justice Section. Alex Ray will serve as Student Representative for the same section.
Dr Kristen Wheldon has been selected as Chair Elect of the Police and Public Safety Section of APA Division 18. Dr Thomas Coghlan was elected as Secretary/Treasurer for that section.
According to the American Pyschological Association, this marks the first time a psychologist with expertise in fire service psychology will feature at the leadership level of that section.
A decision that intends to reflect progress towards formal recognition of the fire service within Division 18.
There is no dedicated fire service psychology section in APA Division 18. The appointment of a fire service psychologist to Chair Elect of the Police and Public Safety Section may help elevate the role of fire service psychology in the broader professional psychology community.
It has been shared how the aspiration is for this development to support future inclusion of fire service practitioners in Division 18 governance.
Dr Edgar Villarreal, PhD, President Elect for 2024–2025, extended thanks to all candidates and voters.
He emphasized that member participation in the election supports APA Division 18’s mission to advocate for public service psychology both inside and outside APA.
The American Psychological Association’s Division 18 Psychologists in Public Service has shared how the following officers were elected in 2025.
