On April 25, 2025, several UM-Flint Psychology students were officially inducted into the university’s National Honor Society in Psychology chapter, commonly known as Psi Chi. This year also marks the chapter’s 50th anniversary at UM-Flint.
For one new inductee, Branna O’Dea, the honor allowed her to think about the future of psychology.
“This honor was quite a surprise, and it excites me to think that what I am participating in is part of a continuous effort that allows psychology to evolve,” O’Dea said. “It makes me think about how it might evolve in the future and who might be here celebrating their hard work and success 50 years down the road.”
The induction ceremony also featured UM-Flint Psi Chi alumni, who offered words of wisdom to the newest members. Christopher Abeare, who was inducted into Psi Chi in 1997, is now a Professor of Psychology at the University of Windsor and a clinical neuropsychologist. Abeare wants the new inductees to feel a sense of pride as members of Psi Chi.
“I hope that this allows them to be confident and dedicated to the field and that they are able to help improve the field in which they are training. Psychology is dynamic and constantly changing, so we need good, strong students to help lead the way and make sure the changes are conducive to the science of psychology.”
The 50th anniversary of the UM-Flint chapter of Psi Chi inspired a special connection for Thomas Wrobel, professor of psychology and Psi Chi’s faculty advisor.
“I have been a member of Psi Chi for 50 years, so this anniversary is sentimental for me. We wanted to make a big deal out of this induction and it was great to have alumni return to give their insights to help the next generation.”
During the ceremony, the new board of Psi Chi assumed their positions. One of the positions that was filled was president because Ellarie Prince, former president of Psi Chi, graduated this semester. As her time as president concluded, she took a moment to reflect on what that honor meant to her.
“Being president of Psi Chi was a big step for me. It allowed me to break out of my boundaries and see how well I could fit in a leadership role like that,” Prince said. “When I was told that I was president, it was a surreal moment and meant a lot to me. It proved to me that I have been working so hard, and I deserve to be in roles like that and am capable of serving in said roles.”
