A delegation from the American Psychological Association (APA)’s International Learning Partner Program (ILPP) conducted an international seminar and learning exchange with the College of Science’s Department of Psychology and the Graduate School on September 19, 2025.
The APA delegation—Lauren Magness, Junah Estrelles, Aolani Mendoza, Dr. E. Nathaniel Chapman, and Nancy Sidun—shared insights on cultural transitions, peer leadership, and diverse approaches to psychological practice. On behalf of UST, Assoc. Prof. Rodel Canlas, PhD and Asst. Prof. Eric Dimar, MA presented the University’s community-centered initiatives such as the UST Psychotrauma Clinic and the Thomasian Mental Health Responders, highlighting the institution’s commitment to volunteerism, service, and holistic mental health care.
The seminar continued with parallel sessions at the UST Main Building, where faculty members, graduate students, and APA delegates engaged in specialized discussions. Topics included clinical and educational psychology, crisis intervention, the Gottman Method in couples’ therapy, pediatric psychopharmacology, climate change and gender, and the role of technology in psychology and mental health. The interactive format encouraged deeper exchanges, allowing participants to share expertise, build networks, and explore future collaborations. The day concluded with a UST heritage campus tour, giving APA delegates a glimpse of the University’s historic legacy alongside its continuing pursuit of academic excellence.
The event, themed “APA-ILPP at UST: International Seminar and Learning Exchange,” strengthened global academic partnerships in psychology, fostering dialogue on research, training, and professional practice. Launched in 2012, the APA-ILPP promotes cross-cultural collaboration by engaging psychology professionals worldwide in culturally responsive practices and long-term global initiatives. This year’s visit to UST was the program’s first in the Philippines, marking a milestone for both institutions.
The APA-ILPP visit at UST paves the way for sustainable partnerships in research, faculty and student exchanges, and capacity-building programs. The dialogue and connections forged during the seminar signal a shared commitment to advancing psychology as a culturally attuned, globally relevant discipline.