Rising to the Challenge: A Remarkable Display of Leadership and Service
By: Robert Avsec, FSPA Operations Chief
The 9th Annual Conference of the Fire Service Psychology Association in Portland, Oregon was a tremendous success, even in the face of unexpected challenges. Before the conference began, we lost two scheduled presenters, one due to a serious medical emergency and another because of a death in their family on the eve of the event.
What could have created significant disruptions instead became an inspiring example of teamwork, professionalism, and commitment to FSPA’s mission.
We extend our sincere gratitude to three members of the FSPA Board of Advisors, Dr. Gina Dunckel (Top Left), Dr. Patrick Palmieri (Top Right), and Dr. Carla Moore (Bottom) who stepped forward on short notice to develop and deliver two high-quality presentations that filled these unexpected gaps in the program.



Their ability to rapidly create educational content that met the rigorous requirements for APA Continuing Education credits ensured that conference attendees continued to receive the exceptional learning experience they expected.
Their dedication, expertise, and willingness to serve exemplify the best of FSPA. Because of their efforts, our attendees experienced a seamless conference program, and the educational integrity of the event was preserved.
Please join us in thanking Dr. Dunckel, Dr. Palmieri, and Dr. Moore for their extraordinary contributions. Their actions demonstrated not only professional excellence but also the resilience, adaptability, and spirit of collaboration that define our association.
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