Consuelo Arbona, professor in the Department of Psychological, Health, & Learning Sciences (PHLS) has been recognized by the American Psychological Association (APA) as a Fellow of the Society for the Psychological Study of Culture, Ethnicity, and Race (Division 45).

Division 45 of APA is a professional organization that has provided Arbona a welcoming home since the beginning of her academic career.

“Fellow status is a significant recognition from my peers for my contributions to knowledge regarding the role of acculturation, ethnic identity and minority stress in the psychological and academic wellbeing of Latina/o adolescents and young adults, and for my efforts in the multicultural training of future psychologists,” said Arbona.  “I am honored and humbled by the award.”

“This is truly an honor and a testament of her scholarship and service,” said Ezemenari Obasi, PHLS department chair. 

Lorraine Reitzel, professor in the Department of Psychological, Health, and Learning Sciences (PHLS) has been accepted as a Fellow in the American Academy of Health Behavior (AAHB).  The status of Fellow in AAHB is conferred as an indication of distinction and is based solely on merit.

Reitzel has distinguished herself as evidenced by her academic record of publication, grants and presentations. The criteria for Fellow status are specific and rigorous, and are designed to recognize outstanding contributions to the body of knowledge in health behavior. 

"Her scholarship is making a significant impact in the Health profession and it’s great to see AAHB recognizing her research accomplishments," said PHLS department chair, Ezemenari Obasi.

"We are delighted to count Dr. Reitzel as a member and Fellow of the Academy because of her significant record and scientific accomplishments," said Jeffrey S. Hallam AAHB President. "[This is an] honor that few in our profession earn or receive during their careers."

“As a research collaborator to Dr. Reitzel, I have seen first-hand her unwavering commitment to research-based health promotion and elimination of health disparities,” said PHLS professor Nathan Smith. “This award is well-deserved and indicative of the powerful impact she is making on the health of Houston, Texas, and the Nation.” 

AAHB comprises an interdisciplinary and diverse group of scholars focused broadly on impactful health behavior research. Reitzel believes it is important for fellows to play active roles in the organization and particularly to welcome and support new membership. 

"To me, being recognized as a fellow in this organization signifies that my work has achieved a measure of national recognition rendering me worthy of inclusion among an elite group of scholars," said Reitzel.  "It signifies that my peers believe that my work is having a real and measurable impact in the field of health behavior."