About Me

Welcome to my website! My name is Michael and I am an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Sacred Heart University. I earned my PhD in Adult Development and Aging Psychology in 2021, and completed my training at the University of Akron and Cleveland State University.

I am a proud member of the Gerontological Society of America and belong to three divisions of the American Psychological Association:

1. Division 20: Adult Development and Aging

2. Division 35: Society for the Psychology of Women

3. Division 44: Society for the Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity.

I also lead the Sexuality, Minoritized Identities, and Lifespan Experiences Lab, or the SMILES Lab (because we love spreading smiles while tackling important questions!) My work has been featured in academic journals like Archives of Sexual Behavior, The International Journal of Sexual Health, Clinical Gerontologist, and Experimental Aging Research.

Much of my research focuses on the LGBTQ+ community—a community I’m proud to belong to. Yes, a gay man studying LGBTQ+ issues at a Catholic university! It can happen. I presently serve as the faculty advisor for the Gender and Sexuality Alliance. 

My overall goal as a professor and researcher is to inspire students with my passion for learning and enthusiasm for psychological research.

Teaching

I currently instruct Adult Development, Life & Living / Death & Dying, Research Design and Analysis I, and Research Assistantship. I also have previously taught Introduction to Psychology, Developmental Psychology, Child Development, and Experimental Psychology. I genuinely enjoy being in the classroom and getting to know my students.

My teaching philosophy is grounded in five core principles:

1. Uplift diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging across all aspects of my courses

2. Foster student collaboration and responsibility

3. Promote professionalism and prepare students for a range of academic and applied settings

4. Encourage experiential learning to deepen engagement and understanding

5. Nurture interest and excitement for the field of psychology

Even More About Michael!

I was born and raised in the suburbs of Cleveland Ohio, in the village of Fairport Harbor. Living in a small community has undoubtedly shaped my academic work, because in the “Port” intergenerational relationships are the norm and older adults played a major part of my everyday life. Therefore, it was not a surprise that I have found myself wanting to study older adults and aging.

Outside of work, I enjoy competing in conformation dog shows with my adorable English Toy Spaniels, Petula and Beverly Leslie. Yes, like the dog shows you see on tv— my dogs have had success at the famous Westminster Kennel Club!

I also enjoy trips to the theatre and collecting antiques. If you have any questions or just want to say hi, don’t hesitate to reach out! You can email me at valem@sacredheart.edu