I am deeply saddened to learn that Professor Zhang Houcan has died. Thank you so much for letting us know.

I have fond memories of Professor Houcan. I first met her in 2000 when she was a Chinese Delegate to the General Assembly of the International Union of Psychological Science. I was so much impressed by her kindness and wisdom that I sought her advice just before presenting a very important proposal to the General Assembly in Singapore in 2002. The proposal had to do with the development of the Universal Declaration of Ethical Principles for Psychologists. She gave me very helpful advice.

It was such a privilege and honour for me to meet her again at the International Congress of Psychology in Beijing in 2004 and, many years later, at some of our congress site visit meetings in Beijing.

Professor Houcan has always stricken me as an open, honest, humble, thoughtful, respectful, and caring person. I am not surprised to read in the obituary that she was a great source of inspiration and encouragement for all of her students and colleagues. I am convinced that she was an esteemed mentor and colleague.

Professor Houcan has left Chinese psychology and education an extraordinary legacy. Her achievements speak for themselves. The knowledge and guidance she passed on to students over such a long and productive career is beyond one could ever imagine. She will continue to live on in those she taught and befriended.

Her death is a huge loss to the Chinese psychology community as well as to the international psychology community.

This is a time of mourning. Please accept my heartfelt condolences.

I am sorry about the spreading of COVID in China. I am relieved to learn that only a few have been seriously ill. Hopefully, the situation will improve soon and you will be able to return to a more normal life.

May 2023 be a happier and healthier year!

Warm regards,

Janel