Bernice Pescosolido, a distinguished professor of sociology at Indiana University, will be the honored recipient of the annual Matilda White Riley Behavioral and Social Sciences Honors from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This prestigious award recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the field of behavioral and social sciences, and Professor Pescosolido is truly deserving of this recognition.
With over 30 years of experience in the field, Professor Pescosolido has established herself as a leading expert in the study of mental health and illness, with a particular focus on stigma and the social aspects of mental health. Her research has been instrumental in shaping our understanding of the social and cultural factors that influence the way we perceive and respond to mental health issues. Her work has not only shed light on the impact of stigma on individuals with mental illness, but also on the broader social and economic consequences of stigma for society as a whole.
Professor Pescosolido’s contributions to the field of sociology and mental health have been recognized and celebrated by her peers and colleagues. She has received numerous awards and honors, including the Leo G. Reeder Award for Distinguished Contributions to Medical Sociology and the Sociology of Mental Health, and has been elected as a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. She has also served as president of the American Sociological Association and the Society for the Study of Social Problems.
In addition to her impressive academic achievements, Professor Pescosolido has also demonstrated a deep commitment to mentoring and supporting the next generation of behavioral and social science researchers. She has mentored countless students and junior faculty members, and has been a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in academia. Her dedication to nurturing and supporting young scholars has had a lasting impact on the field, and her students have gone on to become leaders in their own right.
The Matilda White Riley Behavioral and Social Sciences Honors is a fitting recognition of Professor Pescosolido’s remarkable contributions to the field of behavioral and social sciences. Named after Dr. Matilda White Riley, a pioneering sociologist who was instrumental in establishing the NIH Office of Behavioral and Social Sciences Research (OBSSR), this award celebrates individuals who have followed in her footsteps and made significant contributions to the field.
As the recipient of this prestigious award, Professor Pescosolido joins an esteemed group of past honorees, including Nobel laureates, renowned scientists, and distinguished scholars. Her selection is a testament to the impact and influence of her work, and is a source of pride for the entire Indiana University community.
The NIH Matilda White Riley Behavioral and Social Sciences Honors not only recognizes Professor Pescosolido’s achievements, but also serves as a reminder of the importance of behavioral and social sciences in addressing some of the most pressing issues facing our society. As we continue to grapple with issues such as mental health, addiction, and social inequality, the insights and perspectives of behavioral and social scientists like Professor Pescosolido are more crucial than ever.
In conclusion, Professor Bernice Pescosolido is a highly deserving recipient of the Matilda White Riley Behavioral and Social Sciences Honors. Her groundbreaking research, dedicated mentorship, and commitment to advancing the field of behavioral and social sciences have left an indelible mark on the academic community and society as a whole. We congratulate her on this well-deserved honor and look forward to her continued contributions to the field in the years to come.
