STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Tarleton State University’s Dr. Jonali Baruah has been named President-elect of the Southwestern Psychological Association (SWPA).

Currently serving as professional representative for the SWPA, she will transition to the President’s Council at the conclusion of the organization’s annual convention in late March. She will serve as President-elect for the 2025 convention, President for the 2026 convention and Past-president for the 2027 convention.

“I am deeply honored and humbled by the trust placed in me by my students, colleagues and esteemed members of SWPA,” she said. “With my experience of working in multicultural environments in the U.S. and abroad, I’m eager to begin this journey alongside my fellow members with the goal of advancing SWPA as a leading force in psychological research and practice in the region.”

Dr. Baruah is a Professor of psychology and Coordinator of the graduate applied psychology program at Tarleton State. Her research seeks to understand the social and cognitive processes underlying creativity and decision-making in face-to-face and virtual groups. 

“We are all very proud of Dr. Baruah,” said Dr. Thomas Faulkenberry, Head of the Department of Psychological Sciences. “Her election is an accurate reflection of her reputation as a scientist and as a leader. She will do great things in this role, and we are lucky to have her as a colleague.”The Southwest Psychological Association works to strengthen psychology’s scientific, professional and educational facets. At its annual meeting, SWPA offers papers, posters, continuing education sessions, workshops, symposia and invited talks. The organization prides itself on serving the psychological community by providing access to scientific advances and professional development in a collegial atmosphere. 

A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of approximately 18,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.