Division 37 Diane J. Willis Early Career Award
Forecasted
Division 37 Diane J. Willis Early Career Award supports early-career psychologists’ contributions to policy and service that advance public understanding of mental health and improve child and family well-being.
Funder: American Psychological Foundation
Due Dates (Anticipated): January 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: One award of $2,000
Summary: Recognizes early-career psychologists advancing the mental health and well-being of children and families, particularly through policy and service.
Key Information: Nominees must hold an EdD, PsyD, or PhD from an accredited university and be no more than 10 years postdoctoral.
Description
The Division 37 Diane J. Willis Early Career Award is sponsored by the American Psychological Foundation (APF) and Division 37: Society for Child and Family Policy and Practice. It supports talented early-career psychologists whose contributions inform, advocate for, and improve the mental health and well-being of children and families, particularly through policy.
The award honors Dr. Willis’ lifelong advocacy across clinical child, pediatric, developmental, and family psychology. Her publications, clinical work, mentoring, and teaching helped change policy at local, national, and international levels. Her work included advocating for children’s rights at the United Nations, developing prevention and early intervention programs for Native American children on reservations, and establishing services for children with developmental disabilities, chronic illness, or experiences of maltreatment.
