The Southwest Minnesota State University chapter of Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology, has been named a 2025-26 Psi Chi Model Chapter, placing it among just 45 chapters nationwide to receive the distinction this year.

Selected from more than 1,150 Psi Chi chapters, the SMSU chapter earned the recognition for successfully meeting a series of goals focused on academic excellence, student engagement, professional development, and service. 

Throughout the 2025-26 academic year, SMSU Psi Chi members organized a variety of events designed to connect students, promote psychology and support academic success. New initiatives included a “Relax Before Finals” event during the fall semester and a spring movie event open to the campus community. The chapter also hosted graduate school and career panels to help students explore educational and professional opportunities in psychology. 

“Working with the students and advising the chapter has been a lot of fun,” said Dr. Shawn Carlson, assistant professor of psychology and faculty adviser for the chapter. “It has been a great opportunity for our on-campus and online students to work together to host psychology-themed events throughout the year. It’s been awesome to see students brainstorm new ideas to promote the field of psychology on campus and bring them into reality.” 

In addition to programming and outreach efforts, the chapter held multiple induction ceremonies throughout the year, welcoming new members into the organization. Once inducted into Psi Chi, students maintain lifetime membership in the honor society. 

The Model Chapter Award recognizes chapters that demonstrate exceptional leadership and engagement while advancing Psi Chi’s mission on their campuses. SMSU’s recognition highlights the dedication of its student members and faculty leadership in creating meaningful opportunities for psychology students both inside and outside the classroom.