David H. Barlow, PhD, is recognized with this APA Citizen Psychologist Presidential Citation for his commitment to diversifying the profession by ensuring all students are supported with funding and mentoring during graduate school.
Throughout his career, Barlow demonstrated unwavering commitment and dedication to all students, most notably when he served as director of clinical training at Boston University. He made certain that students of color were fully supported, funded and recipients of exceptional scientific, academic and professional training. Barlow assured that all graduates of Boston University were exposed to the diversity of experiences and ideas of individuals from varied backgrounds, and as a result, he inspired new psychologists to commit to understanding the problems and meeting the needs of all members of society through rigorous research and practice. His commitment to funding every future psychologist meant that students regardless of means had access to the same educational, research and mentorship opportunities to soar in their careers. Because of that commitment, the entire clinical training program during his tenure was a program where students of color were intellectually challenged, rigorously prepared, and able to rise without barriers to the highest level of professional development. Barlow has had a far reaching impact on many psychologists of color and has shaped the future of the discipline in valuing and supporting the potential of all students.