News and Achievements
Catch up on the latest academic, research, and outreach news from the Department of Psychology at Washington State University. Click on a headline to read an individual story or follow the links at the bottom to see all of our news and information.
Swindell named vice provost for Undergraduate Education
Samantha (Sam) Swindell has been named Washington State University’s vice provost for undergraduate education and will begin a phased transition into the role Sept. 21.
Taming the nightmares
Assistant professor of Psychology, Christine So was recently featured in the WSU Magazine.
WSU psychology course boosts student well‑being
A Washington State University psychology course is helping students improve their well-being, and new research from the class shows participants reported statistical gains in positive emotions, health, and life satisfaction over the course of the semester.
Study abroad expands Sofia Ramirez’s path
Three study abroad experiences in just over a year have reshaped how Sofia Ramirez (’27 Busi. Admin., Psych.) sees her future.
Henry Olsen chosen as CAS Gonfalon Bearer
Henry Olsen has been chosen as the Spring 2026 Gonfalon Bearer representing the College of Arts and Sciences during this year’s Commencement ceremonies.
Dr. Universe explains why people drop out of school
Washington State University’s resident feline scientist, Dr. Universe, tackles a tough question from Edgar, 11, of Virginia: Why do people drop out of school?
WSU SURCA undergraduate researchers earn 65 awards
Seventy-three students at the Showcase for Undergraduate Research and Creative Activities (SURCA) 2026 were the recipients of 65 awards totaling $14,000.
Cannabis intoxication disrupts many types of memory
Smoking cannabis can do more than blur memories. It can reshape them.
Read more about the Department of Psychology and the College of Arts and Sciences.
- Prenatal infection increases risk of heavy drinking later in life
- ‘The munchies’ are real and could benefit those with no appetite
- Developing assistive technologies for cognitive neurodegeneration
- WSU lands six Top 25 rankings in Best Online Programs from U.S. News
- Dr. Universe explores why some people do ‘bad’ things with a WSU psychologist
- American summers are starting to feel like winter
- WSU students selected for Youth Villages’ summer internship program
- WSU-led study identifies associations between prenatal factors and childhood obesity
- Coug’s Ireland trip wasn’t perfect, but it made an impact
- Samantha Swindell receives inaugural Assessment Champion Award