Cody Rusher, a second-year graduate student in the Industrial-Organizational Psychology and Human Resource Management (IOHRM) program, presented at the 4th Minding Animals International Conference in Mexico City, Mexico in January alongside his faculty mentor, Dr. Carol Kline. This conference, organized by Minding Animals International Incorporated, saw hundreds of academics, artists, activists and advocates gather together to discuss issues centered around animal welfare. Their presentation was titled "Exploring the Perceptions of Millennial Travelers towards Animals."
Cody and Dr. Kline have been working together for the duration of his time in the IOHRM program through the Graduate Research Associate Mentoring Program (GRAM). Their research has largely revolved around perceptions of animal consumption and the moral implications of one's decisions to eat animals, specifically within the context of travel. Their findings provided insight to the ethical considerations internalized by individuals regarding their role in food supply chains, natural resource conservation and the interconnectedness of species.
Reflecting on this experience, Cody said, "Attending the conference was mind-opening and incredibly educational. I am beyond grateful to have had this opportunity to learn from and network with some of the most prolific researchers and activists from around the world. Presenting at an international conference was exciting and rewarding, and I am so proud of what Dr. Kline and I have accomplished together."
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About Appalachian’s IOHRM Program
Appalachian’s Industrial-Organizational Psychology and Human Resource Management (IOHRM) program offers an interdisciplinary Master of Arts degree through the Departments of Psychology in the College of Arts & Sciences and Management in the Walker College of Business. Students receive specialized training in human resource management with emphases on developing knowledge of theories, methods and research findings derived from the behavioral sciences. The degree prepares graduates for work in business, industry and government, where they will address organizational activities such as selection, placement and motivation of employees, training and development, performance appraisal, and development and change of organizations.
Cody Rusher
Cody Rusher