Award Recipient 2007:  Gerard A. Jacobs, PhD

For his pioneering international contributions to the fields of disaster relief, psychological first aid, and the psychological consequences of terrorism. Gerard A. (Jerry) Jacobs has served with distinction as a consultant to national and international organizations and has provided consultation and training to psychological support programs all over the world.

He was named APA’s consultant to facilitate its response to the December 26, 2005, tsunami; and he returned from Sri Lanka to set up the disaster mental health program for New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina. By providing inspiration by personal example and applying his considerable professional skill, he has helped establish international networks of trained service deliverers who will contribute significantly to ameliorating the impact of future disasters in particularly vulnerable parts of the world.

Dr. Jacobs with 2007 APA President Sharon Brehm