03/29/2026
Courage, resilience, and transformation—all embodied in one remarkable Arkansas story.
Dr. Terrence Roberts, hometown Little Rock, Arkansas, is best known as one of the Little Rock Nine who integrated Central High School in 1957—an act of courage that required National Guard escorts and forever changed American education.
But Dr. Roberts' story didn't end there. He went on to earn an MSW from UCLA and a Ph.D. in Psychology from Southern Illinois University, dedicating his life to education, psychology, and social justice.
In 1999, President Bill Clinton awarded Dr. Roberts and the other members of the Little Rock Nine the Congressional Gold Medal, recognizing their courage and contribution to civil rights.
Today, Dr. Roberts serves as Principal Consultant for T. Roberts Associates, continuing to educate and inspire through his speaking, consultation, and advocacy work.
Dr. Patricia L. Griffen's recent Lunch and Learn presentation reminded us that the story of the Little Rock Nine is also a story about psychology—from Dr. Mamie Phipps Clark's research that made school desegregation legally possible, to Dr. Roberts' own journey into the field, to the ongoing work of understanding and healing the trauma of racism and segregation.
These connections matter. They show us how psychology and social justice are inseparably linked, and how individual courage can transform not just institutions, but entire professions.
📚 For educators, supervisors, and training directors: The full presentation offers insights into how this history informs culturally competent practice and trauma-informed care.
ArPA provides the platform for these crucial professional development conversations.
Members receive CE credits while engaging with content that strengthens cultural competence and advances social justice in psychology.
Join us for our next Lunch and Learn and be part of shaping a more inclusive future for psychology in Arkansas.
