UL Lafayette Psychology Department

05/18/2026

05/16/2026

Congratulations, Dr. Perkins!

Congratulations to Dr. David Perkins, Grand Marshal of the Arts / Liberal Arts/ University College Spring 2026 Commencement Ceremony

Dr. David “Rick” Perkins, Associate Professor of Psychology and Licensed Clinical Psychologist, has dedicated more than 25 years of service to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette as an educator, scholar, and mentor. He joined the University after earning his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from the University of New Mexico in 2001.

Throughout his career, Dr. Perkins has created engaging and intellectually challenging learning environments where students are encouraged to think critically, reflect deeply, and learn from one another. He has had an especially profound impact on graduate education through his mentorship of master’s students, helping them develop the confidence, skills, and scholarly voice needed to succeed in research and academic life.

Through the Analysis of Human Experience Lab as well as the Music Lab, which he co-directs, Dr. Perkins has fostered collaborative spaces where students learn not only to conduct research, but also to think, write, listen, and engage as scholars. His commitment to mentorship extends beyond the University through community-focused initiatives, including the New Beginnings group and his work with the Family Tree Counseling Center.

Dr. Perkins is wearing a special medallion struck in honor of his role as Grand Marshal. Rick, thank you for the knowledge, kindness, and encouragement you have shared so generously with our students, colleagues, and community. Your mentorship and humanity have left a lasting mark on UL Lafayette and beyond.

University of Louisiana at Lafayette College of Liberal Arts UL Lafayette Psychology Department

05/09/2026

🎉 Join us in congratulating these four incredible Master's students on their accepted PhD offers!

Their success is the perfect fulfillment of our program's mission: to equip students with the advanced research skills to be competitive for doctoral study. Join us in celebrating:

✨ Dylan Briggs (LSU, School Psych)
✨ Kiara Martin (U of Florida, Counseling Psych)
✨ Maria Lindquist (U of Illinois, Communication)
✨ Mst Tajlima Tamanna (U of Houston, Counseling Psych)

We wish them all the best as they begin this exciting new chapter. We are so proud of you all!

05/05/2026

We are hiring!
The Psychology Department at UL Lafayette has a last-minute opening for a Visiting Assistant Professor in Clinical or Counseling Psychology. Click the link for more information. This is a short search: applications are due by June 1, so don't wait on this.

Visiting Assistant Professor Description The Psychology Department at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette is seeking a Visiting Assistant Professor with expertise in clinical or counseling psychology for a 1-year appointment (Fall 2026 and Spring 2027) with the potential for renewal. Three cour...

04/30/2026

Members of the Sexual Violence Research Lab recognized Denim Day on April 29 in honor of survivors of sexual assault.

https://denimday.org/
Hearts of Hope: Center for Sexual Trauma

04/22/2026

Way to go Elizabeth!

04/22/2026

A full house for today’s Brown Bag talk from our own Dr. Rick Perkins, who is set to retire at the end of this semester. In addition to being one of the most loved faculty in our department, he will also have the honor of being the Grand Marshal for the Spring Commencement here at University of Louisiana at Lafayette. 💚✨

04/17/2026

Congratulations to Lauren Edwards!

Congratulations to our Spring 2026 Richard G. Neiheisel / Phi Beta Kappa Outstanding Master’s Graduate Award recipients!

We are proud to recognize Steven Guillory (School of Music, UL Lafayette College of the Arts) and Lauren Edwards (Department of Psychology, University of Louisiana at Lafayette College of Liberal Arts) for their exceptional achievements.

Lauren Edwards has distinguished herself through exceptional academic performance and impactful research in psychology, earning a 4.0 GPA. Her work explores complex topics such as existential loneliness and mental health, alongside strong contributions to teaching, research, and professional engagement.

Steven Guillory has demonstrated outstanding dedication to the arts through his work in choral conducting and music education, earning a 4.0 GPA. A bass-baritone and Director of Choirs for the Lafayette Parish Schools Performing Arts Academy, his commitment to excellence is reflected in both his academic success and his contributions to the cultural and educational community.

This prestigious award honors graduate students who exemplify excellence in scholarship, research, and service—continuing the legacy of Drs. Richard Neiheisel.

Join us in celebrating Steven and Lauren on this incredible achievement!
UL Lafayette Psychology Department
University of Louisiana at Lafayette School of Music

04/16/2026

Join us in celebrating Jamillia McKinley, MS! After a successful thesis defense on Monday, Jamillia is officially moving on to the next chapter. We wish our newest graduate the best in all future endeavors!

04/02/2026

Congratulations on the successful defense, Lauren!

Lauren is a mother and maternal mental health coach who transitioned into psychological research. Her thesis distinguished existential loneliness from general loneliness and examined its unique relationship with depression. After graduation, she plans to pursue doctoral training and a career in academia.

Lauren is also the Department of Psychology Outstanding Master's Graduate and the Spring 2026 UL Alumni Association Outstanding Master’s Graduate Award Finalist! Congratulations on the achievements!