Upon Retirement: Associate Professor of Psychology Yueping Zhang

After 24 years, Associate Professor of Psychology Yueping Zhang is retiring from Lewis & Clark. In the following Q&A, Zhang reflects on her love of teaching and shares her future plans to help people for as long as possible.

What was your path to Lewis & Clark?

I moved to the United States 35 years ago from China, undergoing a significant career change from medicine to psychology. After earning my PhD in Physiological Psychology (behavioral neuroscience) from the University of New Hampshire, I held a research position at Stanford University, followed by a faculty position at DePauw University in Indiana, before joining Lewis & Clark College in 2001.

What was your favorite course(s) to teach?

I loved every course I taught. If I had to pick a favorite or two, I would say Drugs and Behavior and Cross-cultural Psychology.

• Drugs and Behavior: I loved teaching this course because of its interdisciplinary nature. It covers topics in neuroscience, psychology, politics, and class/power, allowing students to explore real-life implications, such as legal and illegal substance use problems, in a comprehensive manner rooted in science.
• Cross-cultural Psychology: This course goes beyond recognizing the cultural influences on behavior. My immigrant experience contributes to my passion for this subject, and my bi-cultural perspective enhances my teaching. I challenge students to think beyond WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, Democratic) societies that mainstream psychology often focuses on.

What did you enjoy most about your work?

I most enjoyed interacting with students. Teaching provided me with the unique opportunity to engage with bright, curious minds and watch them grow both academically and personally. I found it incredibly rewarding to mentor students and guide them through their academic journeys.

I also cherished my wonderful colleagues in the Bio-Psy building and beyond. The sense of community and collegiality at Lewis & Clark College made my career fulfilling and enjoyable.

What changed the most during your time at the college? What remained constant?

My specialty area, neuroscience, has changed significantly over the years, along with teaching technology. I remember using overhead transparencies in my early days at Lewis & Clark. Now, we teach in a multimedia world, utilizing digital resources, interactive platforms, online tools, and AI technology.

The college’s mission and vision of liberal arts education attracted me to Lewis & Clark 25 years ago. The commitment to fostering critical thinking, creativity, and a broad-based education has always been at the heart of Lewis & Clark.

What’s something people might not know about you?

Let’s say I’ve got a hidden talent for keeping mysteries alive!

What is your favorite place on campus?

My favorite place on campus is the estate garden, especially around the reflecting pool area. It’s a serene spot that showcases the beauty of our campus.

What are you most proud of?

The many students I have taught, mentored, and interacted with, and the positive impact I have had on some of them.

What’s next for you?

I have started a new journey as a student in L&C’s Professional Mental Health Counseling - Specialization in Addictions program. My short-term goal is to complete the program, and my long-term goal is to become a licensed mental health counselor and help people for as long as possible.