Citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Dr. John Chaney, Regents Professor of Psychology was recently inducted into the OSU Hall of Fame.
Gale Postoak, Intern
STILLWATER, Oklahoma- Citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Dr. John Chaney, a Regents Professor of Psychology was recently inducted into the OSU Hall of Fame. The OSU Diversity Hall of Fame recognizes alumni and university supporters who have significantly contributed to the advancement of diversity and inclusion at OSU and who have distinguished themselves in their particular field or profession and the betterment of their community. The Hall of Fame was established by OSU’s Division of institutional in 2015.
Dr. John M. Chaney, has taught at OSU since 1991 after earning a clinical psychology doctorate from the University of Missouri-Columbia. With more than 125 publications, Chaney has conducted numerous studies examining psychological adjustment to a variety of adult and pediatric chronic medical illnesses. He directs the American Indians Into Psychology program, one of only three Indian Health Service-funded programs in the country that promote Native students pursing advanced degrees in psychology. The program has provided opportunities for more than 200 American Indian graduate and undergraduate students through scholarships and academic enrichment programs and has produced 36 American Indian PH.D.s in psychology.
Chaney, is also the recipient of the 2017 Award for Distinguished Contributions to Diversity in Pediatric Psychology from the American Psychological Association’s (APA) Society of Pediatric Psychology.
The award honors a pediatric psychologist who professionally promotes understanding and respect for diversity in research, policy or practice within a field of pediatric psychology.
“It is quite an honor to be recognized nationally for your investments in diversity-focused training and research over the course of your career, and I am grateful,” Chaney said.
“At the same time, I think it is equally important to acknowledge this individual award is the result of a team effort and a dedicated supporting cast.”
Chaney said the APA award was made possible by the American Indians Into Psychology program he directs, which has helped 25 American Indian students receive their doctorates at OSU. The program, which will celebrate its 20th anniversary this fall, has become an integral part of the OSU Psychology Department, contributing to an inclusive environment that embraces cultural diversity.
“The program’s success would not have been possible without the ongoing support of the OSU administration and the psychology department’s faculty and staff,” he said.
Dr. Larry Mullins, associate dean for research in the College of Arts and Sciences and Vaughn Vennerberg II Chair of Psychology at OSU, nominated Chaney for the award.
“Dr. Chaney has been a champion for diversity his entire career,” Mullins said.
“His research, teaching, leadership and advocacy, in the context of diversity, are exceptional and unparalleled by anyone I know in the field of pediatric psychology.”
