Culture in Action Council

The Culture in Action Council (CIAC) is a student-led organization dedicated to empowering and supporting clinical psychology doctoral students who identify as students of color. The council is currently led by Briyanna Bullock, a doctoral candidate at Midwestern University’s Downers Grove, Illinois campus, and Nathaniel Benavidez, a doctoral candidate at Midwestern University’s Glendale, Arizona campus.

The mission of the Culture in Action Council is to foster meaningful connections, promote personal and professional growth, and strengthen resilience among students of color pursuing doctoral training in clinical psychology. Through mentorship, community-building, networking opportunities, professional development, and open dialogue, the council strives to create an inclusive environment where students can share their experiences, voice their concerns, and support one another.

Guided by the values of respect, belonging, and mutual support, the Culture in Action Council seeks to empower students to thrive throughout their graduate training and future careers in psychology.

Peer Mentorship

The Culture in Action Council offers a peer mentorship program open to all students of color within clinical psychology doctoral programs. First- and second-year doctoral students may participate as mentees, while students in their second year or beyond are invited to serve as mentors. Mentors are encouraged to connect one-on-one with their mentees at least four times during the academic year to provide guidance, encouragement, and support throughout the doctoral journey.

Community Meetups

The council also hosts community meetup events designed to provide a supportive space where students can explore, discuss, and reflect on their experiences within their academic programs, practicum placements, and the field of psychology. Programming may include virtual group discussions, guest speakers, networking opportunities, professional development events, and coordinated volunteer initiatives that bring together students from NCSPP programs across the country.

Get Involved

The Culture in Action Council welcomes all students of color who are interested in building community, developing meaningful connections, and supporting one another throughout doctoral training.

To learn more, ask questions, or request mentor or mentee application forms, please contact: [email protected]