Norman Abeles, PhD, had an illustrious career in psychology, significantly contributing to the field and the American Psychological Association (APA). His dedication to advancing public awareness of psychology and applying psychological principles to social issues is commendable. Holding numerous leadership positions, including APA President in 1997, he was instrumental in the establishment of a continuing APA Committee on Aging and the development of the APA Guidelines for the Evaluation of Dementia and Age-Related Cognitive Decline.
His long-standing service of over 25 years on APA’s Council of Representatives (representing Divisions 12, 20, 39 and 42); on various APA boards and committees (including the Ethics Committee, Committee on Aging, Board of Educational Affairs, Publications and Communications Board, and Policy and Planning Board); as President of several APA Divisions and the Michigan Psychological Association; and Board of Trustees member of the American Psychological Foundation highlights his commitment to the profession. Receiving the 2010 APA Award for Distinguished Senior Career Contributions to Psychology in the Public Interest further underscores his impact.
As a visionary leader in APA’s publications arena, he uniquely appreciated the importance of practice and science working collaboratively towards common goals. His hands-on journal editorship, constant mentoring, and boundless optimism were truly transformational.
Abeles may have appeared subdued in his presentation, small in stature, and gentle in character, but interactions with him revealed a profound depth of knowledge, unwavering conviction, insightful wisdom, and visionary leadership.
Abeles' work, especially in promoting the importance of aging within psychology, is truly inspiring. In recognition of his lifetime devotion to APA and the field of psychology, APA honors Norman Abeles, PhD, with this posthumous Presidential Citation. He will be dearly missed.