For Robert Owens, EdD, CSCS, adjunct professor in the sport and performance psychology (SPP) program at University of Western States (UWS), the ability to work with students from a variety of backgrounds and experiences makes his job as an instructor meaningful and rewarding.
A member of the Association for Applied Sport Psychology (AASP) for more than five years, Dr. Owens believes that inclusivity in the profession is paramount. He serves as chair for the AASP Diversity Committee. The committee’s main goal is to ensure that AASP honors the commitment to diversity and is an inclusive community for all members. The broad definition of diversity includes, but is not limited to, race, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, ethnicity, gender, age, physical and mental capabilities and nationality.
As part of the Diversity Committee, Dr. Owens helps organize the AASP – HBCU (historically black colleges and universities) Conference. The third annual conference will be held on the campus of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU) in Tallahassee, Fla., from March 2 – 3, 2018.
This student-led conference is targeted toward traditionally underrepresented populations and individuals who are interested in careers within applied sport and exercise psychology (SEP). The goal of the conference is professional growth and fostering a dialogue around issues of diversity, inclusion and social justice in applied SEP settings.
“For many students, this conference is a first introduction to field of applied sport and exercise psychology,” said Dr. Owens. “We want students to leave the conference with a clear definition of the field, its purpose and the kinds of employment opportunities available post-graduate degree. If students leave the conference with a greater appreciation for diversity and inclusion within the profession, we have done our jobs.”
To find out more information or to register for the AASP – HBCU Conference, go to www.hbcusportpsych.org
