Alan L. Goldberg, PsyD, ABPP, JD, is recognized with this APA Citizen Psychologist Presidential Citation for his sustained advocacy for advancing psychology as a science, technology, engineering and math discipline at the state and national level.
For 25 years, Goldberg has been a volunteer judge for the Southern Arizona Research, Science & Engineering Foundation (SARSEF), a non-profit organization that runs one of the largest science fairs in the country for students from kindergarten through high school. He also served on the Board of Directors of SARSEF for six years. The CEO of the foundation stated, “He is a stalwart in recognizing the behavioral sciences as an important venue in science education, especially when the majority of projects are in the 'hard' sciences and engineering. He has been an instrumental player on our board in enriching participation of young women, and underserved kids from Title 1 schools.” This year one of the SARSEF Behavioral Science winners won an all-expense paid trip to compete in the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF). While there, she won a $40,000 college scholarship and had an article published about her project in Science News.
Goldberg’s engagement of the psychological community in the science fair by garnering support, judges and prizes from local and regional psychological associations, university departments and the like, is a demonstration of the energy and creativity that he brings to his work. In their letter of recommendation, the board president, deputy director and director of programs of SARSEF described Goldberg as “your best representative of service to the community,” stating that his impact in his role with SARSEF is far-reaching and long-lasting. Goldberg actively volunteers to represent the Foundation at community events such as school board meetings, Girl Scout Women in Science Day, and the Tucson Festival of Books, among others. Goldberg was also credited for using his behavioral science expertise on the board of directors at a time when SARSEF was reorganizing and growing, helping to build consensus and focus the board on the strategic goals and objectives of the organization.