The 46th Annual Scientific Conference of the International School Psychology Association (ISPA) was held in the historic university city of Coimbra, Portugal, from July 16 to 19, 2025. This year’s theme, “Promoting Sustainability through More Humane Schools,” emphasized the vital role of supporting the mental health of children and youth, while promoting international scientific collaboration.

The School Psychology Program at Barry University proudly took part in this prestigious global event. Representing the program, Dr. Silvia Majercakova Albertova presented research developed through a cross-cultural collaboration. Her presentation, titled “Covitality, School Belonging, Internalizing and Externalizing Behaviors in Secondary Students,” was featured as part of the Positive Psychology and Well-being Symposium.

The symposium was co-organized with international partners: Dr. Michael von Bönninghausen (The Netherlands), Dr. Astra Schultz (Estonia), and Drs. David Pineda and Victoria Soto (Spain), highlighting a diverse and united effort to address student mental health through a global lens.

Barry University’s participation in the ISPA Conference represents a significant step forward in fostering international partnerships in psychological science and research. It underscores the School Psychology Program’s ongoing commitment to innovation, evidence-based practice, and the promotion of mental health and well-being in educational systems.