Marci Lobel, a Distinguished Teaching Professor in the Department of Psychology at Stony Brook University, has been honored with the 2026 Mentor Award from the Association for Psychological Science (APS). The APS Mentor Award is given to members who have played a significant role in advancing the careers of others, highlighting those who help students and colleagues develop their own research interests and career paths. The award emphasizes the value of mentorship within psychological science.
“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 factors related to reproductive health, including how prenatal maternal stress may affect birth outcomes. Her approach to mentorship stresses community-building, motivation, and recognition. She encourages mentees to become self-sufficient while providing guidance without micromanagement.
She is also known for her focus on multicultural issues in mentoring. Lobel supports students from varied backgrounds—those balancing work or family obligations alongside academics—and welcomes individuals with diverse experiences into her lab. Graduate students under her supervision are encouraged to mentor undergraduates from different backgrounds as well.
In her classes, Lobel promotes critical thinking through activities such as presentations and peer reviews. Many former mentees have credited her with helping them achieve both academic success and personal growth.
“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.”
