PPA Newsletter

Hello again to everyone! I’ve returned from my sabbatical leave and am again in the midst of department chair duties and teaching, while continuing my research projects. Overall my fall sabbatical worked as intended, including giving me a chance to reflect and “recharge.”

Before I leave the sabbatical topic, I want to extend my sincere thanks to my colleagues for picking up slack for me. I’m especially grateful to Rob Wassmer who did an excellent job as Acting Chair.

INTERNSHIPS
This is the season of internship announcements, and you’ve undoubtedly seen several that I have sent over our list serves. More should be coming soon. I wish to again urge people with some geographical flexibility to consider some of the city and other internships that you’ll see. A willingness to try a challenging position in a new location may not only be personally rewarding but may help to demonstrate an adaptability and comfort with taking risks that some employers find attractive.

SURVEYS
Let me offer a huge thanks to all of you who completed our student and alumni surveys. We will begin to analyze the data in the near future, and I’m sure the information will be helpful in thinking about how to further strengthen the program. I will have more to write about the survey results in a future newsletter.

NEW STUDENT RECRUITMENT
This is also the time of year when potential new students are beginning to contact us. There’s still time to apply (the application deadline remains April 1), so by all means please share information about our program with your friends and coworkers. I’m glad to talk to anyone you know who might want to discuss our program.

A SAD NOTE
Finally, I need to pass along some sad news. Heidi Wackerli, a 2000 graduate of our program, recently died unexpectedly. Her sister has indicated that people who wish to remember her may make contributions to Homeward Bound Golden Retriever Rescue, 7495 Natomas Rd., Elverta, CA 95626.

Ted Lascher
PPA Department Chair

COMMUNICATOR