The New Paltz Evolutionary Psychology Lab, in collaboration with the Hudson Valley Humanists, gathered at the New Paltz Community Center on February 23rd for their annual “Darwin Day” research symposium. Each year, the lab members and Humanists come together to celebrate Charles Darwin’s birthday (February 12) and present research related to his ideas to the community.
Glenn Geher, founder of the New Paltz Evolutionary Psychology Lab and of the Evolutionary Studies Program, presented “Why Your Dog Cares and Your Cat Doesn’t: An Evolutionary Perspective.” Ethan Eisenberg, graduate student in the MS program of Psychological Science, presented “An Evolutionary Model of Emotional Intelligence.” Katie Gruskin, alum, presented “Evolutionizing Education: An analysis of Mismatch.” Emma Jerabek, alum, presented “A Life History Approach to Understanding the Efficacy of Childhood Advocate Centers.” Maya Kardas, undergraduate student, presented “Does Failure Beget Success in Life? An Evolutionary Analysis of Resilience,” and Aileen McCarthy, undergraduate student, presented “A Life History Approach to Understanding Prosocial Behavior.” The Humanists are an intellectually vibrant group and much interesting conversation was had (along with a birthday cake in honor of Darwin!). This event coincided with our campus’ Evolutionary Studies’ (EvoS) celebration of Darwin Day on campus, promoted and organized by the Evolutionary Studies club (which took place on February 10).
The New Paltz Evolutionary Psychology Lab is grateful to the years of collaboration with the Hudson Valley Humanists and the opportunity to discuss Darwin’s contributions to research and society as a whole. And we look forward to working with the Humanists next year!
New Paltz Evolutionary Psychology Lab with the Hudson Valley Humanists. (l-r; back row): Gab Picciocchi, Katie Gruskin, Maya Kardas, Aileen McCarthy (Symposium Chair), Ethan Eisenberg, Emma Jerabek, Carol Auer (HVH President); front row: Julia Colodny, Glenn Geher (lab director), Paul Auer
