The Mavis Hetherington Award for Excellence in Applied Developmental Science
Submissions accepted September 1–December 1, 2026.
The Hetherington award is to recognize excellence in scholarship and contributions to applied developmental science. This is intended for individuals whose work has not only advanced the science of developmental psychology, but also has helped to promote well-being of children, families, and groups or organizations. These contributions could have been made through applied research, direct service, advocacy, influencing public policy or education, or other activities that have improved outcomes for children and families.
The award will be presented at the following year's APA annual convention. Winners do not need to attend APA's convention to receive awards.
Scientists who are between 15 and 30 years of completing their doctoral degree are eligible.
Membership in APA’s Division 7 is required to earn an award. The individual must be a member of Division 7 by March 15 of the year they are nominated.
Membership in APA’s Division 7 is required to earn an award.
Nominations should include:
- A letter of nomination, with two additional letters of support provided by the nominator. At least one of these three letters should be from someone with membership in Division 7 at the time of submitting the nomination.
- The nominee’s curriculum vitae.
- Up to four representative publications.
2027 Award Timeline
- September 1, 2026: Call for award nominations
- December 1, 2026: Due date for award nominations
Please email nomination materials.
2026: Sheri Madigan & Deborah Rivas-Drake
2025: Elizabeth Gershoff
2024: Anna Glassman-Pines
2023: Sandra Simpkins
2022: Elizabeth E. Cauffman
2021: Steve S. Lee
2020: Rebekah Coley