During APA's 2014 Annual Convention, APF honored the winners of its 2014 Gold Medals for Life Achievement. They are:
Gold Medal for Life Achievement in the Science of Psychology: Thomas J. Bouchard Jr., PhD
Bouchard has forever changed the way people understand individual differences in human behavior. His signature work, the Minnesota Study of Twins Reared Apart, demonstrated that genetic influence is pervasive, affecting virtually all measured traits. The study findings shaped the efforts of countless colleagues and graduate students, furthering and launching many careers and accomplishments.
Gold Medal for Life Achievement in the Practice of Psychology: Gilbert O. Sanders, EdD
Sanders has served as the point person for developing integrated programs of psychology and medicine in Alaska, California, Germany and Vietnam. His leadership in psychotherapy and psychopharmacology earned him the rank of captain, the highest rank authorized for psychologists in the U.S. Public Health Service. His contributions to public health and the military have improved fitness for duty of government personnel, reduced costs and improved health care for the military and their families.
Gold Medal for Life Achievement in the Application of Psychology: Richard M. Lerner, PhD
Lerner's theoretical and empirical contributions have provided foundations for the fields of life-span human development and applied developmental science, as well as adolescence and positive youth development. He has mentored scores of scholars who share his vision of how applying developmental science can promote health and positive development among the diverse youth of America and the world.
Gold Medal Award for Life Achievement in Psychology in the Public Interest: Bonnie R. Strickland, PhD
Strickland's contributions in research, scholarship and teaching have had a profound effect on the impact of psychology in the public interest. Her research across neglected groups, such as black children, social activists, and gays and lesbians, has legitimized the scientific and scholarly study of previously ignored areas. Her contributions have identified solutions for social problems and advanced social justice in relation to the provision of psychological science and services.
Charles L. Brewer Distinguished Teaching of Psychology Award: Mary Kite, PhD
Kite's commitment to teaching is reflected in her contributions to the science of psychology, excellence in teaching and exemplary service to the discipline. As a scholar, Kite has conducted groundbreaking work in gender-associated stereotyping that is internationally recognized. She has viewed her leadership roles as opportunities to advocate for the many students and colleagues she has mentored throughout her career.
