Guest Speakers Redefine Leadership in Applied Psychology Series

Enter the realm of leadership psychology with a lecture series curated by Wentworth Institute of Technology Professor Adam Payne of the School of Sciences and Humanities.  

The Spring 2024 Psychology of Leadership series uses I/O (industrial and organizational) psychology to translate theory into actionable strategies for effective leadership in the trenches. Speakers hail from a variety of industries and backgrounds including design build, DEI, religion, accounting, business, and talent acquisition.  

Payne relates that his academic courses often deal with applied psychology and that guest speakers provide a better link to real-world application.  

“By hearing from guest speakers, the student learning objectives in each course are highlighted, giving students more ways and alternate voicings on how to apply course material through the lens of their personal and professional experiences,” said Payne. 

I/O psychology studies and improves human behavior in the workplace using psychological principles and research methods to improve the work environment. These improvements can include anything from comfortable workstations or better work-life balance to hiring practices and productivity. 

The Wentworth series kicked off in January and featured Director of Product Management for Devoted Health Stephen Jacobs, Facilities Engineer Stephen Boudette, Head Softball Coach Erica Castro, Talent Business Partner at Monte Nido and Affiliates Jillian Ramsay, and Principal and Design Builder Gary Alfaro Mendoza. 

The series continues Wednesday, March 13 with Stanford University undergraduate Molly Graybill. She will speak at 3pm on campus about religion and psychology. 

Future speakers include: