Hays is recognized for her innovative applications of sport and exercise psychology with a particular emphasis on the performing arts and performing artists. She exemplifies a scientist-practitioner having authored numerous publications including two books published by APA. Hays has mentored numerous sport, exercise, and performance psychologists and was recognized with the 2018 Association for Applied Sport Psychology Distinguished Mentor Award. Long before the world went virtual during the COVID-19 pandemic, Hays led tele-consultation groups for psychologists and performance consultants, earning her the title of Performance Coach to the Performance Coaches. As such, she easily transitioned to providing support for consultants during COVID-19, who in turn were able to support many others. Her Psychology Today blog reaches the public and has provided easily comprehended advice throughout the pandemic addressing timely topics such as the impact of the two major upheavals we are all experiencing, COVID-19 and endemic racism.
In sum, I nominate Kate Hays for her lifelong mentorship of performance consultants and for her leadership in the use of exercise and sport in enhancing psychological well-being, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic where many benefited from the services of those she coached during the pandemic.
Hays is an APA fellow in Divisions 42 and 47.