Inaugural Psi Chi Induction Ceremony Welcomes 22 to Psychology-Focused Honor Society

The newly established WPI chapter of Psi Chi, an international honor society focusing on psychology, welcomed its first inductees at a recent ceremony in Higgins House. 

Faculty, students and friends and family gathered to support the inductees, which included current students and alumni. 

The 2025 Psi Chi inductees were Brooke Adams, Sofia Bilodeau, Victoria Corcoran, Samantha Curtis, Margaret Dixon, Kadidia Fall, Abigail Henry, Aksel Jensen, Mira Kirschner, Helena Kottmeier, Sophia Kouznetsov, Mya Lesieur, Korinna Muller, Andrew Nguyen, Lorena Nunes, Eva Petschek, Brenna Pfisterer, Mikayla Prue, Azizah Ramsingh, Meghan Urakawa, Caitlin Veltrup, and Zirui Zhong.

Assistant professor Richard Lopez, the group’s faculty advisor, told the inductees at the ceremony that psychological science is as important as ever in today’s world.

“In an age where AI systems can mimic human thought and even creativity, the question of what it means to be human has never been more pressing,” Lopez said. “The rapid rise of AI challenges us to reflect deeply on the qualities that define a meaningful life: empathy, social connection, moral reasoning, and the pursuit of meaning and purpose—qualities that remain distinctly and—for now—irreplaceably human.

This is where psychological science shines, Lopez said. A deep understanding of psychology helps us navigate the complexities of human relationships, understand and repair the fault lines of societal division, and foster resilience in the face of adversity. 

“It is psychology that equips us to address mental health crises exacerbated by polarization and uncertainty,” Lopez said. “And it is psychology that will guide us forward in ensuring that emerging technologies serve humanity rather than undermine it.”

Victoria Corcoran, the organization’s first chapter president, opened the ceremony with a call to action, encouraging inductees to recognize their responsibility as Psi Chi members to have a significant and positive influence on the world.

“As members of Psi Chi, you are now part of a community that values both academic excellence and the pursuit of knowledge about the mind and behavior,” Corcoran said. “This society isn’t just a recognition of where you’ve been, but a reminder of the journey ahead. It is a commitment to continue learning, to think critically, and to contribute meaningfully to the world around us.”