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Sunday, 05 September 2010
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The following article was written by Dr. C. Gerald O'Brien for 'The Mississippi Psychologist' Newsletter.  It is reproduced here, with his permission.

MPA MILESTONES
C. Gerald O'Brien, Ph.D.

While I have been involved in MPA in various roles for more than 20 years, there are others of you who have even longer memories.  There is no literal MPA archive; many of our past records and documents have disappeared over the years.  Perhaps the time has come for us to undertake the mission of creating a true archive through your volunteer efforts - and mine - by compiling an oral history as well as assembling important documents from our past.

1950MPA begins as a section of the Mississippi Academy of Sciences; first meeting in Starkville, MS 
1960MPA is incorporated as an independent organization.
1967Psychology licensure is enacted in Mississippi.
1974Freedom of choice legislation is passed.
1977Psychologists are included in revised civil commitment law.
early 1980'sAnnual Convention adds poster sessions; committee structure is updated by President John Alcorn
1984MPA is represented at first APA State Leadership Conference.
1986Annual dues of $25 are doubled to $50 at the urging of MPA President C. Gerald O'Brien.
1988MPA hires its first Executive Director, with the help of APA grant funds; tax status changes to 501(c)(6).
1990"Green for Grassroots" campaign is initiated.
1992Licensure for psychologists is significantly modified and updated, becoming a true practice act, and adding mandatory continuing education.
1993First MPA Strategic Planning Retreat.
1996Federal Mental Health Parity enacted, after MPA-coordinated press conference, lobbying by psychologists and others nationwide.
1999MPA receives APA Division 31 "Award for Outstanding Achievement by a State, Provincial, or Territorial Psychological Association".
2002 New By-laws approved by membership, completing a process initiated by MPA President Patrick Smith.