Call for Nominations to the APA Committee on Aging
The American Psychological Association's Committee on Aging (CONA) is seeking nominations for two new members. CONA is interested in members of APA with substantive specialization in aging issues to serve a three-year term beginning January 2007 and ending December 2009.
Upon its establishment in 1998, CONA became the identified entity within the APA governance structure to ensure the representation of older adult interests. CONA members interact closely with other APA governance groups as well as with APA staff on public interest issues and policy. The mission of CONA is to advance psychology as a science and profession and as a means of promoting health and human welfare by ensuring that older adults, especially the growing numbers of older women and members of minority groups, receive the attention of the Association. Its goals include: * provide advocacy for a scientific agenda on aging to policymakers and private and public funding agencies * advocate for policies that enhance the availability and reimbursement of health and mental health services to older adults and their families * contribute to the formulation and support of public policies that promote optimal development of older adults, facilitate psychological practice with older persons, and expand scientific understanding of adult development and aging * promote inclusion of knowledge about adult development and aging in all levels of education, including continuing education, training programs, and professional development of psychologists * develop and disseminate information concerning the scientific findings and practice issues about older adults to psychologists, other professionals, policymakers, and the public * serve as a visible focus for the coordination of information among groups within APA that address aging issues and offer consultation to relevant APA boards, committees, divisions, state associations, and directorates, and * ensure that older members of APA receive the appropriate attention of the association
Selected candidates will be required to attend two committee meetings each year in Washington, DC, with expenses reimbursed by the APA, and are encouraged to attend a CONA meeting held during the APA Convention at their own expense. Members are also expected to participate in email discussions and bi-monthly conference calls, work on Committee priorities between meetings, provide consultation to APA Office on Aging staff, and participate in policy advocacy activities.
CONA places a priority on maintaining representation within the Committee's membership that reflects the diversity of psychology and society, including (a) individuals with experience in research, clinical training and practice, policy and advocacy, and education; (b) early- and mid-career psychologists and those who are retired or employed less than full time; and (c) diversity with respect to ethnicity, culture, age, gender, ability, sexual orientation, and geographic location.
Nomination materials should include a current curriculum vitae and a letter from the nominee that indicates willingness to serve on CONA and highlights specific competencies and interests that she or he would be able to contribute to the work of CONA. Letters of support from other APA governance groups and divisions, state psychological associations, or other organizations are desirable but not required. Prior applicants may reapply.
Nominations and supporting materials should be sent by September 1st, 2006 to: Deborah DiGilio, Director of the Office on Aging, American Psychological Association, 750 First Street NE, Washington, DC, 20002-4242 or via e-mail at ddigilio@apa.org.
