In November of 2009, the Multicultural Psychological Scholars Organization (MPS) received its charter from Montclair’s Student Government Association. To announce and celebrate their place among the SGA, MPS is hosting a series of workshops and events, which range from academic advising to more cultural experiences, such as movie showings and ethnic eateries; all to further the advancement of its members and participants.
Started in 2007 by Dr. Milton Fuentes, MPS was a small club of 12 members organized into a learning community for their field of study. Dr. Fuentes has an outstanding list of accomplishments in the area of Latino American Psychological Studies to his name. Currently, a professor of Psychology at Montclair State University, Fuentes more than proves his qualifications with his Master’s Degree in Psychology (concentration in Latino Mental Health), which he earned at MSU and a PhD. in Clinical Psychology from the Graduate School of Applied and Professional Psychology at Rutgers University. Fuentes is also one of the founding members of the Latino Psychological Association of New Jersey, an organization “committed to addressing the psychological needs of Latinos by supporting psychologists and mental health professionals through the advancement of training, treatment, research and mentorship, and by advocating for the well-being of the Latino community.”
Currently, MPS is comprised of 50 active members who are committed to carrying out the organization’s mission, to “promote and embrace diversity and equity in the field of psychology and grant a head start to those wishing to attend graduate school, by providing support and event programming,” said Kenny Benavidea, the President of the organization.
MPS helps members recognize the importance of tolerating and coexisting with all members of the world around us as a key skill needed to advance in the world today and for the upcoming future. Experts estimate that by 2025, minorities will account for 25 percent of the United States population.
To assert their presence among our campus, MPS is hosting a series of events throughout this Spring semester that will be open to all who wish to attend. All events will be held in Dickson Hall Room 279, beginning at 3:30 p.m. For a listing of the events and any other information concerning the MPS and its events, visit montclair.edu/mps.
Amanda Grace McElroy
Staff Writer
