SRCD Announces New Executive Director

WASHINGTON, D.C. – After an extensive international search, the Society for Research in Child Development (SRCD) announced the selection of Saima K. Hedrick as its next executive director today. Hedrick takes the helm on April 5th, succeeding Martha Zaslow, who has been serving as Interim Executive Director of the organization.

Hedrick comes to SRCD directly from the Society for the Study of Reproduction (SSR), an association of scientists and physicians that promotes the study of reproduction by fostering interdisciplinary communication among members. She served as executive director of this 1,300-member association for more than three years, overseeing core activities including conferences and meetings and the publication of its official journal. Well-versed in association management for a scientific organization, Saima brings more than a decade of experience and certifications in association leadership.

Furthermore, Hedrick is a 2017-2019 Diversity Executive Leadership Program scholar and has a track record of creating and enhancing programs to empower people from underrepresented groups. She also has extensive experience creating programs to engage and support young scholars. Hedrick has served as an advocate for maternal and child health issues. She holds a Master of Public Health, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology, both from George Mason University.

“Saima is bringing an exceptional combination of proven organizational leadership and association expertise to the challenges that SRCD faces in today’s unique environment,” said Ken Dodge, president of SRCD and William McDougall Distinguished Professor of Public Policy and Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at Duke University. “We expect Saima to not only continue SRCD’s excellent programs, but to work with partners and funders to expand SRCD’s influence and visibility.”

“The Governing Council is excited to start collaborating with Saima in her new role,” said Nancy Hill, SRCD President-Elect and the Charles Bigelow Professor of Education at Harvard University. “Under her guidance, SRCD is well-positioned to continue to thrive—reaching its strategic initiatives and broadening its influence on the science, practice, and discourse on child development.”

The Society for Research in Child Development is one of the world’s most prestigious professional organizations in the field of child development. Founded by the National Academy of Sciences in 1933 as a multidisciplinary, not-for-profit, professional association, SRCD has a membership of approximately 5,500 researchers, practitioners, and human development professionals from 65 countries. The mission of SRCD is to advance developmental science and promote its use to improve human lives. This mission is achieved through a variety of programs, publications, and policy initiatives.