February 10, 2015

Psychology Prof. Allen Omoto receives presidential citation from American Psychological Association

Professor Allen Omoto of CGU’s Division of Behavioral and Organizational Sciences received a presidential citation from the American Psychological Association (APA) at its Division Leadership Conference last month in Washington, DC.

Allen Omoto
Allen Omoto, left, with APA President Barry S. Anton.

The award recognizes Omoto’s dedication to social justice and integrating psychological science with issues of social policy. Barry S. Anton, president of the APA, also praised Omoto for being an inspiration to students and colleagues.

The citation continues a string of professional awards and honors for Omoto.

Last summer, the Western Psychological Association gave him its prestigious Social Responsibility Award, which goes annually to an individual in recognition of substantial and influential work that facilitates peace, freedom, social justice, and/or protection of the planet’s natural environment.

APA’s Division 44, also known as the Society for the Psychological Study of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender Issues (SPSLGBTI), elected Omoto as its president.

And most recently, Omoto was elected to a three-year term on the Policy and Planning Board of the APA. This board has primary oversight for APA’s current and long-range policies, insures that the policies and operations of APA divisions and state-level associations are consonant with the purposes of the association, and makes recommendations on the structure and functioning of the association on a regular five-year cycle. His term will last three years, through 2017.

Omoto uses psychological perspectives and methods in attempting to better understand social issues and social problems. His research interests focus on the social and psychological aspects of prosocial behavior and civic and political engagement, including volunteerism.

He also conducts research on environmental issues, HIV, and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender concerns. He has received grants to support his research from federal and foundation sources, and his work has been published in scientific journals, chapters, and other scholarly outlets.