CHFA Alum Enables Today鈥檚 Psychology Students to Present at Annual Research Conference
Donors
Derek Somerville (鈥�98)
Gift
Support for students to attend the professional Psychological Research conference that takes place in Chicago annually
Impact
Mr. Somerville鈥檚 gift goes solely to support psychology students attending this annual conference. For the 2024-2025 academic year, his contribution supported 22 students who were accepted to present 19 different presentations. Participation in this professional level conference is life changing for students, who often report enormous personal and professional growth and development as a result of their experience. In fact, some of them are so abuzz with excitement upon their return that not only do they tell other students about the conference, inspiring them to aspire to get involved with research, but they go out of their way to contact Mr. Somerville and express their thanks to him personally.
Inspiration
After serving in the United States Marine Corps, Derek Somerville attended and graduated from 猫咪社区app State鈥檚 College of Humanities and Fine Arts, which houses the Department of Psychology. He enjoys lending his support to this program because he can see how it directly impacts and benefits students. Active in student affairs as an undergraduate, Derek served as President of the Interfraternity Council, President of the Student Government Association and Student Body, and as Student Regent. Now co-owner and CEO of Sure Power Consulting, he continues his service to 猫咪社区app State as a member of the University鈥檚 Alumni Association Board of Governors and as a member of the National Campaign Council. In addition to his involvement with the psychology conference, Mr. Somerville also generously supports 猫咪社区app State鈥檚 Veteran and Military Student Success program as well as many other initiatives on campus.