John R. McQuaid, PhD, was awarded a Presidential Citation for his unwavering service to the nation’s Veterans through psychological research, teaching, clinical work and organizational leadership.
McQuaid has dedicated his professional career to alleviating suffering and improving the lives of veterans. He held mental health and academic leadership positions within the VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Francisco VA Medical Center, University of California, San Diego and University of California, San Francisco. McQuaid is the epitome of the scientist-practitioner, conducting stellar psychotherapy research and expertly translating results into cutting-edge interventions that change lives. He is a beloved educator and skilled supervisor, mentoring predoctoral students, postdoctoral fellows, residents and early career faculty. He is a highly sought after administrator with expert skill in navigating complex systems. McQuaid’s volunteer leadership of organizations outside the VA has a dramatic impact on our field and our patients. In his roles as president of the Association of VA Psychologist Leaders and as chair of the American Psychological Association’s clinical practice guideline panel for depression, he has led with strength and grace, combining a commitment to scientific rigor with deep concern for individuals with mental health needs.