Marci Lobel, a Distinguished Teaching Professor in the Department of Psychology at Stony Brook University, has been named the recipient of a 2026 Mentor Award from the Association for Psychological Science (APS). The award recognizes individuals who have played a significant role in guiding students and colleagues within the field of psychological science.
The APS Mentor Award is given to members who are recognized for helping others develop their own research and career goals. The award highlights the importance of mentorship in psychological science and honors 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 academic work centers on psychosocial aspects of reproductive health. Her research includes examining how prenatal maternal stress can affect outcomes such as low birth weight and preterm birth. She is also known for her approach to mentorship, which emphasizes building community, fostering motivation, recognizing achievements, supporting self-sufficiency, encouraging collaboration among mentees, and offering guidance without micromanagement.
Lobel is noted for being attentive to multicultural issues. She supports students from various backgrounds—including those managing work or family obligations alongside academics—and welcomes individuals with different ages, abilities, races, ethnicities, and socioeconomic statuses into her lab. Graduate students under Lobel’s supervision also mentor undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds.
In classroom settings, Lobel encourages critical thinking through activities like presentations and peer reviews. Her mentees praise her genuine care in helping them succeed academically while also supporting their 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.”
