Nancy B. Ruddy, PhD, was awarded a Presidential Citation in recognition of her exceptional leadership, influential advocacy and extensive contributions to education, advancing the universal integration of psychology into primary care.
As an early adopter and champion, Ruddy has been instrumental in driving momentum for integrated primary care. A gifted teacher and exemplary role model, she has mentored psychology trainees, medical residents and colleagues to engage in collaborative models of care at the University of Rochester School of Medicine, Hunterdon Family Practice Residency, Mountainside Hospital and McCann Health. Ruddy's contributions include co-authoring The Collaborative Psychotherapist: Creating Reciprocal Relationships with Medical Professionals, serving on APA task forces addressing integration and giving lectures nationally promoting collaboration. As co-chair of the APA Society for Health Psychology's Integrated Primary Care Committee, she spearheaded development of an innovative curriculum for graduate programs nationwide, increasing student exposure to primary care psychology. The APA Society for Health Psychology (Div. 38) has recognized her accomplishments, bestowing the Outstanding Contributions to Clinical Health Psychology Award in 2013 and Fellow status in 2014. Ruddy sets the gold standard for an integrated primary care psychologist, applying a diverse skill set collaboratively and creatively to improve population health.