UW–Madison Psychology alumni represent their alma mater through excellence in myriad ways. The Department of Psychology recognizes its alumni with four distinguished alumni awards, given annually. Award categories include applications of psychology, early career, friend of the department, and research/academic achievement. You may submit a nomination for a Psychology Badger by September 15.
Most recently, we were pleased to recognize the following outstanding alumni for their achievements:
Adrienne Wood, PhD
For a distinguished career in academia, research, training the next generation of scientists, and advancing understanding of the dynamics of social interaction, exploration, and connection to enhance human flourishing.
Janet Shibley Hyde, PhD
For her tireless advocacy and unwavering dedication to the Department of Psychology, which have left a profound and lasting impact.
"You can't teach people to change, to progress, to embrace change unless you understand how their minds work. And that's where my UW Psych degree has been stellar. It gave me insight to carry on these activities, to prosper, to create, to innovate, and to accomplish."
Zorba Paster, MD, 2020 Distinguished Alumni Award Recipient
Distinguished Alumni Award: Applications of Psychology
Given annually to a UW-Madison Psychology graduate who has achieved prominence in the field of applied psychology and made contributions of enduring impact.
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Recipients
- Victor Villacrez (2024)
- Daniel Gartenberg, PhD (2021)
- Zorba Paster, M.D. (2020)
- Katherine Cronin, PhD (2019)
- Anne Savage, PhD (2018)
- John Gould (2017)
- Steven Sauter (2017)
Distinguished Alumni Award: Early Career Achievement
Given annually to a UW-Madison Psychology graduate who has earned a bachelor’s degree or doctoral degree within the past 10 years, has earned distinction in her/his field, and demonstrates outstanding future potential.
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Recipients
- Adrienne Wood, PhD (2025)
- Coty Roberts, MSW (2023)
- Zhalarina Sanders (2021)
- Linda Vakunta (2020)
- Jennifer Sluga (2019)
- Heidi Allstop (2019)
- Amanda Riek, JD (2017)
Distinguished Alumni Award: Friend of the Department
Given annually to a UW-Madison Psychology graduate who has provided distinguished leadership and/or service to the Department of Psychology.
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Recipients
- Janet Shibley Hyde (2025)
- Aris Alexander, PhD (2020)
- Michael Smith, PhD (2019)
- Joyce Rosevear, PhD, and Fred Rosevear (2018)
- Dave Weiner (2017)
- Mark Laufman (2016)
Distinguished Alumni Award: Research/Academic Achievement
Given annually to a UW-Madison Psychology graduate who has made significant achievements in research and/or academia, contributing to the flourishing of the Wisconsin Idea.
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Recipients
- Gayla Margolin, PhD (2023)
- Constance Hammen, PhD (2021)
- L. Alan Soufre, PhD (2020)
- John Gottman, PhD (2019)
- Marsha Mailick, PhD (2019)
- Lyn Abramson, PhD (2018)
- Greg Miller, PhD (2017)
- Stephen Suomi, PhD (2016)