When Associate Professor of Psychology Dr. Jenny Froese accompanied Sterling College students to the 2026 Southwestern Psychological Association Conference in Frisco, Texas, she was continuing a tradition that had a significant impact on her own undergraduate experience.

As a Sterling College student from 1998 to 2002, Froese attended the conference under the mentorship of Professor Emeritus Dr. Arn Froese. Today, she provides the same opportunity to her own students, helping them conduct and present research in a professional academic setting.

Sterling had two students who presented: Sadie Waller, of Independence, Mo., and Broc Harland, of Ulysses, Kan. 

Harland presented his research on perceptions of bias and news credibility at this year’s conference. The project represented more than a year of work and culminated in the opportunity to share his findings with students, faculty, and professionals from across the region.

Following the conference, Harland reflected on his experience. 

“Still taking in this moment. I had the opportunity to present my research at SWPA 2026 in Frisco, Texas, something I’ve been working toward since Spring 2025. My study focused on perceptions of bias and news credibility, and being able to share that work meant a lot to me,” said Harland. 

He continued, “More than anything, I’m just grateful. Grateful to learn from others, grateful for the conversations, and grateful for the encouragement to keep going. I thank God for opening this door and allowing me to grow through this experience,” said Harland. 

For Froese, the reflection was a reminder of the lasting impact these opportunities can have on students.

“My experience attending SWPA was critical in my professional development. It really helped me understand the world of a professional psychologist. As a professor, it is really rewarding to see my students experiencing the same professional growth. Many of my students who present go on to become successful professionals in the field of psychology,” said Froese. 

The Southwestern Psychological Association Conference provides students with opportunities to present original research, engage with scholars in the field, and gain experience communicating their findings in a professional environment.

“SWPA is an excellent venue for students to grow as professionals. I’ve seen students gain a lot of confidence by presenting. They are sometimes nervous before they present, but then they realize that they have presentation skills that are on par with other professionals,” said Froese. 

Through opportunities such as undergraduate research and conference presentations, Sterling College students gain hands-on experience that prepares them for graduate study, careers, and lifelong learning.

Sterling College is a Christ-centered, four-year college located in Sterling, Kansas, with a mission to develop creative and thoughtful leaders who understand a maturing Christian faith. For more information, visit www.sterling.edu.