Happy New Year, NERA! As I was writing this message, it gave me an opportunity to think about my NERA journey. My first introduction to NERA was as a graduate student in the Psychometric Program at Fordham University (Rose Hill campus). I was also a graduate student intern at the College Board and one of my mentors (and co-author), Jennifer Kobrin, suggested that we submit a paper based on SAT validity research that we conducted. While the original plan was for me to present the paper, the birth of my son altered those plans. It was not until a few years later, as an early career professional that I attended my first NERA and presented a paper related to my dissertation, served as a discussant on a session, and served as a discussant during the graduate student poster session. I was all in! From then onward I knew that NERA would continue to be a professional home for me. David Moss from the University of Connecticut was the discussant for my paper session, and I will always remember the feedback and words of encouragement that he provided. I soon realized that my first experience attending NERA was the embodiment of NERA; a warm, collegial and supportive environment. As we make plans to commemorate NERA’s 50th Annual Conference, we will continue in this spirit and support our new and long-standing members.... read more