56th Annual International Convention of The Association of Black Psychologists, Inc.
July 29-August 3rd, 2025 | Daytona Beach, FL Register for the 2025 Convention Here!Sponsorship and Exhibitor Guide
Join ABPsi for five days of reconnecting, healing, and honoring The Essence of Who We “Be”!
📅 July 30 – August 3, 2025
📍 Bethune-Cookman University | Daytona Beach, Florida
Quick Important Links
Exhibitor, Vendor, Sponsorship Guide
Volunteer at the Convention
Call for 2025 Abstracts
Writing Boot Camp July 29th, 2025
Welcome to the 56th Annual International Convention at Bethune-Cookman University!
The ABPsi is excited to invite you to our 56th Annual International Convention. This year’s theme, “Returning to Spirit: The Essence of Who We Be,” promises to be an inspirational experience in African/Black Psychology, providing a space for intellectual discourse, cultural engagement, and professional development. The convention will be held at the Historically Black College and University (HBCU), Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) in Daytona Beach Florida.
Join us at Bethune-Cookman University
Building on the success of last year’s 55th convention, this year’s gathering will further advance the discourse on African-centered psychological frameworks and strategies for collective well-being—hallmarks of The ABPsi convenings.
Additionally, we will enhance the experience through community engagement and unique media programming. In celebration of the 120th anniversary of Bethune-Cookman University, as the host institution, this event will acknowledge B-CU’s history, legacy of academic excellence, service, and transformative education, reflecting the vision of its founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune.
Join Us For Our Community Day!
Why Attend?
- 9Engage in scholarly discussions on African/Black Psychology.
- 9Learn from leading experts and thought leaders in the field.
- 9Participate in interactive panels, workshops, and cultural sessions.
- 9Celebrate Bethune-Cookman University’s 120th anniversary and its legacy of academic excellence.
- 9Connect with a global network of scholars, practitioners, activists and community leaders committed to the well-being and liberation of Black people
Conference Highlights
- 9Keynote Speakers: Renowned African-centered psychologists and thought leaders.
- 9Scholarly Presentations & Panels: Cutting-edge research, symposia, and poster sessions.
- 9Honoring Elders & Pioneers: Celebrating contributions to African/Black psychology.
- 9Community Engagement & Advocacy: Meaningful dialogues on systemic challenges and institution building.
- 9Networking & Jegnaship Opportunities: Build connections and grow within a supportive community.
- 9Mbongi: Where people come together to solve problems, share ideas, and learn about their.
Take a peek into ABPsi 2025
President and Student Circle Chair Enstoolment
The Enstoolment Ceremony is a sacred tradition honoring the installation of both the ABPsi Student Circle Chairperson and the new ABPsi Presiden and celebrates leadership our African heritage.
Embracing African Wisdom
Our sessions will cover topics from the science of African/Black Psychology to
innovative practices, community-centered healing, and yoga, all designed to inspire and equip you with the tools needed to continue our sacred work.
The Science of African/Black Psychology
Throughout this convention, you will participate in transformative Mbongis, presentations, and poster
sessions, and explore pioneering research that honors our unique African experiences and perspectives.
Embracing Our Power
Let’s enjoy, love, and heal each other, for that is the power that each of you carries.
We want to remind you that the program we have put together in all of its Blackness is to challenge us to be in a Black Space, talking about African things and being African Healers.
Mbongi & Under the Baobab Tree
SANKOFA
(SAHN-koh-fah)
“Go back and get it”
FUNTUMFUNEFU DENKYEMFUNEFU
“Unity in Diversity”
NKYINKYIM
“Life’s journey is twisted”
BOABAB TREE
“The Tree of Life”
An icon of the African continent. With bark and fruit offering over 300 life-sustaining uses, it is the root of many Indigenous remedies and traditions.
2025 ABPsi National Convention Committee
Convention Chair: Yuma I. Tomes, PhD
President-Elect: Monique Swift, PhD
General Assembly (Co-chair): Adeeba Deterville, PhD
Continuing Education (Chair): Sabrina Scott-Lorestil, PhD
Student Circle Representative: Quanisha Whittfield & Kofi Mosley-Kellum
National Treasurer: Rachel Gaither, MBA
Rituals (Co-chair): Jermaine Robertson, PhD, Kristee Haggins, PhD
Regional Representatives: Zeeyon Walker, PsyD; Eryka Boyd, PhD, Gabrielle Smith, PhD, Jeffery Menzise, PhD
National Convention Volunteer Coordinator: Felicia Swafford, PhD
Council of Elders: Pearl Barner, PhD
ABPsi National Office: Kathy Jones, Candace Wilson, Michelle Washington
Join us. We are here for you!
The future of tomorrow’s Black mental health practitioners begins with us.
ABPsi till eternity
Please note that video recording is not allowed during convention proceedings. Please contact the national office for additional information (301)449.3082