As you get settled into a new academic year, I hope that Psi Chi will become an important part of your routine. Psi Chi is much more than an honor society; it is an opportunity for you to grow academically, professionally, and socially. Academic growth is provided through the opportunity to have your research published in the Journal of Undergraduate Research or to earn a Psi Chi award or grant. Professional growth is provided through the networking and exciting leadership training available at the 2009 National Leadership Conference. At the chapter and national level, social growth is obtained through attendance at chapter events and participation in service projects.

I am very excited about the second Psi Chi National Leadership Conference in Nashville, Tennessee January 2–4, 2009. Please take a few minutes to review the information on page 8. This is an excellent opportunity for chapter presidents and faculty advisors to attend and benefit from the knowledge of the Psi Chi National Council (past and present), National Office staff members, and other participants. The program is focused on leadership and is designed to give participants hands-on opportunities through group problem solving, leadership building, and great networking opportunities. The NLC is only open to one faculty advisor and one chapter president per chapter. Space is very limited, so it is important to register early. The registration fee is $220 and covers all training materials and meals during the conference. There are also a limited number of travel grants available for participants who are traveling to Nashville from outside of the metropolitan area. Registration will begin on Wednesday, September 17, 2008, at 12 noon EST and applications will only be accepted online. If you do not have your login information, please email psichi@psichi.org to request that it be emailed to your faculty advisor.

Finally, I hope that you will consider your service projects for the upcoming year. I feel it is not only the responsibility of the members, but also the National Office to give back to our community. In the photograph above, I am at a Habitat for Humanity key presentation ceremony for the Blackwell family in Cleveland, TN. Habitat for Humanity is an important organization, and one that I have been involved with for many years, preceding my involvement with Psi Chi. In my opinion, service projects—whether volunteering at a shelter, collecting canned food items, or raising funds for AHAP—are something that I would like to see every member participate in this year. Volunteering or service projects do not have to involve funds; it could involve your time, your talents, or your labor. Remember the value of volunteering and giving back to your community!!!