Marci Lobel, a Distinguished Teaching Professor in the Department of Psychology at Stony Brook University, has been honored with a 2026 Mentor Award by the Association for Psychological Science (APS). The APS Mentor Award is given to members who have made significant contributions to the professional growth of others in psychological science.
The award recognizes individuals who support students and colleagues as they find their own voices and pursue research and career goals. According to the APS, this honor highlights the importance of mentoring within the field and acknowledges those with a strong record of teaching, advising, and encouraging others.
“Marci has been consistently recognized by Stony Brook and the profession for her outstanding teaching and mentoring, and I’m thrilled that the Association for Psychological Science, a premier organization for psychological scientists, has recognized her as well,” said Joanne Davila, distinguished service professor and chair of the Department of Psychology.
Lobel’s research examines psychosocial aspects of reproductive health, including how prenatal maternal stress may influence birth outcomes such as low birth weight and preterm delivery. Her approach to mentorship centers on building community, motivation, and recognition among her mentees. She encourages self-sufficiency and collaboration while providing guidance without micromanagement.
Lobel is attentive to multicultural issues in academia. She supports students from various backgrounds—those managing work or family obligations alongside academics—and welcomes diversity in age, physical ability, race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status into her lab. Graduate students under her supervision are also given opportunities to mentor undergraduate students from different backgrounds.
In academic settings, Lobel emphasizes critical thinking through presentations, peer reviews, case studies, and discussions. Many mentees credit her with not only supporting their academic success but also aiding their personal development.
“I’m thrilled to congratulate Marci Lobel on the brilliant news of her receipt of a 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association for Psychological Science,” said David Wrobel, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “The APS Mentor Award is a testament to her decades of exceptional support of mentees — not only students, but colleagues and peers. It is refreshing to hear so many of Marci’s numerous mentees attributing their academic, personal, and professional growth directly to her genuine care for and commitment to their success. Our students, faculty, and staff are fortunate to have such a dedicated mentor in our community.”