Psychological research continues to provide some of the best insights for defeating this COVID-19 pandemic. In this panel discussion, we will consider COVID-19 research from a psychological angle.

Professor Leonard A. Jason will show how effective environments can be provided to those most at risk of being infected. Next, Professor Susan McMahon will discuss K-12th grade school personnel (teachers, administrators, psychologists, social workers) perspectives, stress, and concerns regarding schools reopening and COVID-19. Our third presenter is Assistant Professor Joanna Buscemi, who will provide examples of how policy position statements and federal advocacy efforts can help mitigate inequities in the COVID-19 pandemic. Our fourth presenter, graduate student Nicholas Carruth will discuss how to work safely from home during this pandemic. Our final presenter, clinical psychology alumni Dr. Yasmine Moideen will discuss how the use of telehealth during COVID has improved access to mental health services for many but continues to falter in meeting needs of some high risk populations.

Presenters will summarize their research and experience and provide practical strategies that can be used in their brief presentations of 3-5 minutes. Following presentations, nursing alumni Dr. Linda Degutis will start off the discussion with reactions to the presentations, given her background as Chief Science officer at Avielle Foundation and former Director of the Center for Injury Prevention and Control and the CDC. The remainder of the hour will be devoted to a spirited conversation among panelists, answering questions, and engaging in dialogue with the audience.