Troy University held its annual Psychology Conference on April 25, 2025, as part of the Inaugural Trojan Research Week taking place across campus. 

The conference was held in Hawkins Hall from 9 a.m. until 2:15 p.m. It began with presentations from the following researchers: Paige Klosterman and Dr. Barbara Metzger (Troy University), Dr. Robert Kane (Troy University), Dr. Richard Ledet (Troy University), Dr. Christie Black-Murrell (Troy University), Thomas Reiner (Troy University) and Bruna Silva de Oliveira (Talladega College). 

Following these presentations, there was a brief intermission for lunch. 

The keynote address was given by Addison Aldred, LMSW, a school-based mental health therapist. Aldred discussed the importance of research and hands-on experience gained in higher education, the role of Alabama community mental health services and her personal experiences. Aldred graduated summa cum laude from Troy University in 2022 with a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a minor in criminal justice. She continued her education at Auburn University and graduated in 2024 with a master’s degree in social work. 

After the keynote address, another series of researchers presented. These presenters included Audra Shumpert-Ebarb and Savannah Mathews (Troy University) and Dr. Joel Campbell (Troy University). 

Paige Klosterman, a psychology major with a minor in Applied Behavior Analysis, reflected on her first experience presenting at the conference. Klosterman stated, “You don’t realize how much goes into a 15-minute presentation until you have to do one.” She also expressed gratitude for her mentor, saying, “Dr. Metzger was a really big help in getting me ready.” 

Following the presentations, attendees moved upstairs in Hawkins Hall to the poster sessions, where students shared their research projects. 

A total of 28 posters were presented. Presenters came from Troy University, University of Pittsburgh, Oakwood University, Alabama State University, Tuskegee University, Trellis Behavior and Learning Solutions, Little Spurs Autism Center and University of South Alabama. 

Dr. Frank Hammonds, Professor and Associate Dean, shared his thoughts on the event, stating, “It was a great conference. Students and faculty from TROY and other colleges and universities across the state presented their research. There were a lot of interesting topics and everyone did a great job. Dr. Mariano and I would like to thank all of the presenters and everyone who worked to make the conference a success”.