science summits

Colorado Convention Center

Mile High Ballroom 2-3

Discover outstanding psychological science and explore the future of research at the APA 2025 Science Summit sessions. These sessions offer an exciting opportunity to highlight top research and provide critical discussions that can guide and inspire scientists across broad areas of research. 

THURSDAY

Systems level approaches to Addressing Youth Mental Health Crisis  

Thursday, August 7, 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. 

Mile High Ballroom 2-3, Feature Stage 

The notable increase in mental health disorders among children and adolescents and inadequate access to care have resulted in a crisis. Addressing this crisis will require multifaceted and systems level solutions. Speakers will discuss frameworks for early interventions, evidence-based approaches for prevention and supporting wellbeing in youth, and ways to bring interventions to a national scale. 

Presenters: 

• Ann S. Masten, PhD, University of Minnesota 
• Kenneth A. Dodge, Duke University 
• Sandra Barrueco, PhD, Catholic University of America 
  

FRIDAY

Science of Diversity: Why it Matters 

Friday, August 8, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m. 

Four Seasons Ballroom 2-4, Main Stage 

Why is the study of bias and stereotyping important for understanding social problems? What drives and maintains inequality? What is the benefit of addressing inequity and promoting diverse environments? Join experts who will discuss how psychological science provides critical answers to these questions and why this field of scholarship is so important. 

Presenters: 

• Nilanjana Dasgupta, University of Massachusetts Amherst 
• Brian Mustanski, Northwestern University 
• Idia B. Thurston, PhD, Professor, Institute for Health Equity and Social Justice Research, Northeastern University 
  

SATURDAY

Technology and Workplace 

Saturday, August 9, 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. 

Mile High Ballroom 2-3, Feature Stage

The use of technology in the workplace brings a host of benefits, challenges, and considerations. Human behavior is an element critical to understanding this enterprise.  How is psychological science used to enhance the effective use of technology in the workplace? Experts will discuss a range of ways that science can help understand and improve worker experience and well-being; as well as assist employers in selecting and supporting employees. 

Presenters: 

• Gena Cox, PhD, Founder, Feels Human LLC 
• Tammy Allen, PhD, University of South Florida 
• Tara Behrend, PhD, Professor, School of Human Resources and Labor Relations, Michigan State University 
• Richard N. Landers, University of Minnesota 
  

APA 2025 SPONSORS