Center for Faculty Excellence New Faculty Member Spotlight: Meet Shelby Hunter

Purdue University Northwest’s Center for Faculty Excellence is pleased to introduce several new faculty members who have joined the university during the 2025-26 academic year.

Get to know more about Shelby Hunter, assistant professor of Psychology!

Why did you choose PNW?

“I was drawn to PNW because of its emphasis on community and student support. I identify with PNW’s mission of recruiting students from the surrounding region and providing solid support throughout their academic careers so they can eventually use their knowledge and skills to enrich the community.”

What is the best piece of advice you would like to give PNW students?

“Remember it’s okay to not know it all right now. Lean into your role as a student by asking tons of questions and taking advantage of the resources you have (like great faculty mentorship). Take care of yourself and prioritize those ‘life’ things, too – join that gym, go to the doctor and spend time doing nothing.”

How do you spend your free time?

“I love going for long walks with my pup, Sasha, after work. On the weekends, I am trying new restaurants and attempting to manifest my dream career as a food and restaurant critic.”

Why did you get into your field of study?

“After my undergraduate neuropsychological assessment course, I was sold on becoming a neuropsychologist. My interest in forensic psychology came from working in a legal decision-making research lab during my master’s program at Arizona State University. I then discovered the fascinating intersection of neuroscience/neuropsychology and law, which summarizes my current research and clinical interests.”