Psychology

UC Irvine's School of Social Ecology, Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences, Office of Research, Connected Learning Lab join CERES (Connecting the EdTech Research EcoSystem) in presenting the third panel discussion in the four-part Raising the Next Generation in the Age of AI series.

As tweens and teens navigate an increasingly digital world, parents are facing new challenges and opportunities. Hear from leading experts as they share research-backed insights and practical strategies to help families foster healthy technology habits, strengthen communication, and support youth mental health in the digital age.

The panel – whose moderator is world-renowned UC Irvine Chancellor's Professor of psychology and informatics Candice Odgers – includes:

UC Irvine's School of Social Ecology, Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences, Office of Research, Connected Learning Lab join CERES (Connecting the EdTech Research EcoSystem) in presenting the final panel discussion in the four-part Raising the Next Generation in the Age of AI series.

More details are forthcoming.

As technology reshapes childhood, the need for evidence-based solutions has never been greater. Engage directly with pioneers whose work is shaping how children learn, play, connect, and thrive online, and hear how they are translating research into real-world solutions that can improve the lives of children and families worldwide.

Please note that this event, which is presented by the School of Social Ecology and CERES (Connecting the EdTech Research EcoSystem), begins with a reception from 4-5 p.m. The main program follows immediately.

Panelist bios:

1. Tami Bhaumik, Vice President, Civility & Partnerships

Tami Bhaumik is the Vice President of Civility and Partnerships at Roblox, where she spearheads the platform's digital civility initiative. To establish healthy and safe communities, Tami focuses on providing kids, teens, parents, and caregivers with the skills needed to create positive online experiences, in partnership with leading global safety and industry organizations. With over 25 years of experience, she has successfully fostered supportive communities in a variety of industries by leading the growth of multiple Silicon Valley startups and is on the Boards of the Family Online Safety Institute (FOSI), Technology Coalition, and an advisory board member for the Digital Wellness Lab/Boston Children’s Hospital.

How are young people really experiencing digital technology—and what does the science actually tell us?

The third annual Bridging the Gap Summit is an initiative of the Black Psychology Student Association to bring together Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) students who are passionate about psychology, mental health and equity.

The summit addresses the underrepresentation of marginalized communities in psychology and mental health fields while fostering dialogue, networking, and actionable solutions to advance inclusivity.

This year's event includes:

• Insightful guest speakers and panelists in psychology and mental health 
• Breakout sessions on career pathways and graduate school prep 
• Networking with professionals, alumni, and peers 
• Free lunch and opportunity drawings 

Are you a School of Social Ecology student looking to break into law enforcement, law or forensic psychology? Then Anteater LEO (UC Irvine Law Enforcement Officers Alumni Chapter) School of Social Field Study & Career Services and Anteaters in Law (the alumni chapter for legal professionals) have the event for you. 

This is your chance to meet the pros, attend an exclusive panel discussion, and network with current and retired professionals.

Plus, there will be free pizza at this fifth anniversary event!

Raising the Next Generation in the Age of AI Series is presented by the UC Irvine School of Social Ecology and CERES (Connecting the EdTech Research EcoSystem), in partnership with the UC Irvine Donald Bren School of Information & Computer Sciences and Connected Learning Lab.

Youth and young adults are facing rising mental health challenges and increasing barriers to care. Many of them are turning online, seeking support. At the same time, new evidence-based solutions are emerging with the potential to expand access and improve outcomes. This session will explore what's working, what's next, and how these innovations can better serve young people across California.

Featured speakers are:

The UC Irvine Center for Psychology & Law presents this Distinguished Scholar Talk with Jason Chin, associate professor at Australian National University's School of Law.

"I study the many ways in which science informs the legal system, and particularly how that relationship can be improved," writes Chin on his website. "This includes making sure law relies on the most transparent and reliable psychology, forensic science, criminology, and empirical legal research. In law, this often applies to expert evidence and law reform."

Lunch will be served at this event.

The UC Irvine Center for Psychology & Law presents "Journeys Through Justice: Age, Experience, and Incarceration" with keynote speakers:

• Keramet Reiter, professor of criminology, law & society and director of LIFTED 
• Elizabeth Cauffman, Distinguised Professor of psychology and director of the UC Irvine Center for Psychology & Law 
• Kristin Turney, professor of sociology and, by courtesy, criminology, law & society 

This Spring 2026 Distinguished Fellows event honors these Distinguished Fellows:

• Jennifer Friend ('95, BA social ecology), CEO of Project Hope Alliance 
• Dr. Michael Barsom, executive director of the Department of State Hospitals 
• Daniel Hernandez, chief probation officer with the County of Orange Department of Probation
• Sheila Hanson, presiding judge of County of Orange Superior Court

Keynote speeches begin at 5:30 p.m. Drinks and light bites are served at 6:30 p.m. 

The Latinx Student Psychological Association (LSPA) presents an inspiring evening of connection, mentorship, and growth. Hear from UC Irvine alumni panelists with real experience navigating gap years, graduate school, earning Master's degrees and PhDs, and working in the psychological field.

Use this information to gain insight into your own path while exploring UC Irvine resources that will help you thrive academically and professionally. Connect through a live panel, a Q&A period, and a unique speed-networking session with alumni, faculty and peers.

You'll also find free food and drinks, assorted gift bundles (while supplies last), and opportunity drawings for UC Irvine merch.