Kahlila Lawrence, an associate professor of instruction in the school psychology program at the University of South Florida's College of Education, has been appointed
to the Graduate Education Committee (GEC) of the National Association of School Psychologists (NASP).
“I am incredibly proud of Dr. Lawrence for her recent appointment. It is a testament
to her unwavering dedication to the field,” said Deirdre Cobb-Roberts, professor and
department chair of educational and psychological studies. “We are thrilled about
this well-deserved honor and excited for the meaningful contributions she will make
in this role.”
The GEC plays a pivotal role in strengthening graduate-level education in school psychology.
It offers strategic support in areas such as faculty recruitment and retention, and
works in close partnership with the Program Accreditation Board.
In addition to its advisory role, the committee develops and shares practical resources
for graduate educators and field-based supervisors. It also leads recognition initiatives
that highlight outstanding contributions to the field. The GEC maintains a national
database of school psychology programs across the United States and collaborates with
other NASP committees and external organizations relevant to graduate education.
"I am honored to have the opportunity to contribute to such an important aspect of
our field," said Lawrence. "I look forward to the impact the GEC will have on graduate
education this upcoming term."
Lawrence, who earned a Ph.D. in School Psychology from USF in 2008, will serve as
one of eight GEC committee members — an appointment that highlights her outstanding
contributions to the field. She brings extensive experience supporting students' academic,
behavioral, and emotional development across a range of educational settings in Hillsborough
County Public Schools. Her leadership has also included roles as a peer evaluator
and as a professional development coordinator for a federal school climate initiative.
“Having known Dr. Lawrence since her time as a doctoral student, this moment is especially
meaningful,” said Cobb-Roberts. “To see her work, dedication, and commitment come
full circle is a true point of pride.”
At USF, Lawrence teaches and mentors graduate students in the school psychology program
and serves as a faculty affiliate with the Institute for School-Community Partnerships. She is also a co-principal investigator for Project TIERS, a grant-funded initiative
focused on expanding access to mental health services in high-needs schools and addressing
the shortage of school psychologists in Title I settings. Her appointment to the GEC
underscores her dedication to advancing graduate education and preparing the next
generation of school psychologists nationwide.
“Congratulations, Dr. Lawrence! Your leadership continues to elevate both the program
and the profession,” Cobb-Roberts said.
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Kahlila Lawrence