Our Executive Director, Dr. Jean Rhodes, has been honored with the Urie Bronfenbrenner Award for her lifetime contribution to the field of developmental psychology. The award, given by Division 7 of the American Psychological Association (APA), recognizes an individual whose work, over a lifetime career, has contributed not only to the science of developmental psychology, but also to the practical application of developmental psychology to society.

Over the course of her career, Dr. Rhodes has profoundly impacted the field of youth mentoring. Her groundbreaking research has enhanced the understanding of the role of mentors and helped shape best practices in mentoring programs worldwide. Dr. Rhodes has contributed to or authored over 200 scholarly papers and several books on the topic including, most recently, Older and Wiser: New ideas for youth mentoring in the 21st century, which received the 2023 Eleanor Maccoby Award from Division 7 of the American Psychological Association.

Dr. Rhodes is the founder of the Center for Evidence-Based Mentoring. The goal of the center is to bridge research and practice in the field of youth mentoring, aiming to increase the quality and effectiveness of mentoring relationships. Through this work, Dr. Rhodes also co-founded MentorPRO, a college success application and web platform that connects mentors and college mentees, enabling mentors and programs to help students set goals, monitor progress, and access the resources they need to thrive. 

“I am incredibly touched to be honored with the Urie Bronfenbrenner Award.” said Dr. Rhodes when notified about the award. “This recognition is not just about my work but reflects the collaborative efforts of my many colleagues, former and current students, and the young people we serve. I am humbled to receive an award in the name of Urie Bronfenbrenner, whose groundbreaking ideas and theories continue to shape our work.”

For more information about this award, please visit here.