Summer 2026

Letter from the Chair

Dear Friends,

As summer arrives, a season often associated with renewal, growth, and reflection, I am delighted to share the latest news and accomplishments from the Department of Psychology at the University of Washington. Looking back on the past year, I am struck by the remarkable achievements of our faculty, students, staff, and alumni, whose dedication and creativity continue to advance our mission of research, education, and service.

Despite a rapidly changing landscape for higher education and research, our department remains a vibrant intellectual community and a national leader in psychological science. Our faculty continue to secure highly competitive support from federal agencies, international funding organizations, and private foundations to pursue innovative research that addresses some of society's most pressing challenges. From advancing our understanding of mental health, autism, language development, addiction, and cognitive aging to exploring vision, auditory neuroscience, social behavior, and sensory ecology, our researchers are generating discoveries that improve lives and expand scientific knowledge. Their resilience, creativity, and commitment to rigorous scholarship are especially inspiring during a time of considerable uncertainty for research institutions across the country.

Our students continue to distinguish themselves through their academic excellence, leadership, and commitment to discovery. This year, undergraduate students earned numerous prestigious honors, including Aric Chandler and James Steele Scholarships, Levinson Emerging Scholar Awards, Mary Gates Research Scholarships, and recognition in the Husky 100 program. These achievements reflect not only the exceptional talent of our students, but also the dedication of the faculty and mentors who support them. Equally impressive, our graduate students have continued to make significant contributions to their fields, presenting research at national and international conferences, publishing scholarly work, and receiving recognition for their outstanding research and teaching.

This spring, we celebrated another graduating class of extraordinary students. Commencement provides an opportunity to recognize the hard work, perseverance, and determination that brought each graduate to this milestone. Many of our students have navigated their education during a period marked by economic uncertainty, evolving educational environments, and significant societal challenges. Their accomplishments are a testament to their resilience and to the strength of our academic community. We are proud of all they have achieved and look forward to the many ways they will contribute to science, healthcare, education, industry, public service, and their communities in the years ahead.

The accomplishments highlighted throughout this newsletter underscore the vitality of our department and the impact of psychology in addressing complex challenges facing society. As we look toward the future, we remain committed to fostering an inclusive, collaborative, and supportive environment where students, faculty, and staff can thrive. We will continue to invest in innovative teaching, groundbreaking research, and meaningful community engagement while preparing the next generation of psychological scientists, educators, clinicians, and leaders.

None of this would be possible without the support of our alumni, donors, friends, and partners. Your engagement strengthens our community and helps create opportunities for our students and faculty. If you are able, I encourage you to consider supporting our 2026 Class Gift campaign, which supports our Friends of Psychology Fund. Contributions of any size help support student success, enhance educational opportunities, foster research innovation, and provide flexibility to address emerging needs during this important time.

Thank you for your continued connection to and support of the Department of Psychology. I hope you enjoy reading about the many accomplishments featured in this Summer Newsletter and gain a sense of the energy, innovation, and dedication that define our community.

Wishing you a relaxing, rewarding, and inspiring summer.

Warm regards,

Joseph A. Sisneros
Chair, Department of Psychology
University of Washington

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