WNCPA Board Members
Growing Where We Are Planted
Our Board Members are a diverse group of individuals dedicated to learning and growth. We serve on a voluntary basis. Positions include President, Secretary, Treasurer, Past President, or Member at Large. Presidents are nominated by the WNCPA community and elected for a term of two years.
We welcome new member nominations! Let us know if you are interested in serving on the board by clicking the button below.
Our Story
On the way back from the 1974 American Psychological Association Convention in New Orleans, two Asheville psychologists, Dr. Ted Seitz and Dr. John Fellerath, decided to invite area psychologists to meet. In their first meeting, 20 psychologists gathered in a now long forgotten restaurant: the Bavarian Cellar in Innsbrook Mall.
In that era, very few psychologists worked in private practice. The participants were largely associated with hospitals or schools – the Asheville VA Center, the Blue Ridge Mental Health Center, Highland Hospital, Appalachian Hall, UNC-A and WCU. More than four decades later, most of the original psychologists have moved on in one way or the other. However, they have left a legacy of scholarship, community-building, and generosity of spirit for psychologists in Western North Carolina.
WNCPA was somewhat of a leader in the development of local psychological groups and organizations. In 1974, there were only two other such groups in North Carolina, located in Charlotte and Eastern North Carolina. The Asheville Area Psychologists remained an informal group until 1982, when the Western North Carolina Psychological Association was officially formed. Over the years, the organization has grown considerably, and we look forward to our continued growth and development. If you are not yet a member, we welcome your participation. Join today!
Meet The Board
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Interested in Board Membership?
Shape the future of psychology
Support our community of professionals
Board members serve as trusted stewards of the organization’s mission to advance the field of psychology, promote ethical practice, and support the professional development of members. They provide strategic leadership, ensure fiscal health, and represent the interests of the organization’s stakeholders.
Board members have five key responsibilities: governance and oversight, advocacy and representation, engagement and fundraising, participation and attendance, and professional contribution.
Board meetings are typically held once a month, virtually or in person. Each board member is expected to attend the majority of meetings, to serve on a committee (see Committees Page for details), and to be available for consultation on organizational issues between meetings.
Board members must be licensed psychologists in the state of North Carolina, and eligible for membership in the North Carolina Psychology Association or the American Psychological Association. Prior experience in governance, leadership, or committee work is preferred, as are strong communication, collaboration and decision-making skills.
Time commitment is approximately 4-6 hours per month including meetings, committee work, and event participation. This is an unpaid volunteer position, although reimbursement for approved board-related expenses may be available.
Christen Mullane, Ph.D.
"WNCPA Board Members have the opportunity to make a real difference in the profession they love. It's a great opportunity for advocacy and collaboration."
Annie Holleman, Ph.D.
"It's inspiring to work with other thoughtful and caring professionals, and truly rewarding to help set the vision and strategy for our organization."
Chris Mulchay, Ph.D., ABPP
"WNCPA is a special group for psychologists to connect, share, and support one another and our community."