Steven Walfish, PhD, was awarded a Presidential Citation for his excellence in synthesizing practice and scholarship in all of his professional endeavors and his dedication mentoring countless others in relation to his forward looking view of what psychology is and psychologists can become.
Walfish was the definitive role model of the scientist-practitioner. He successfully integrated research into practice, and published over 70 peer reviewed publications and seven books. He was a leading force in the creation of the APA journal, Practice Innovations and served as editor for its first issue before his untimely death. In the context of his Practice Institute, Walfish firmly believed that excellence in private practice was about being a high quality clinician, and that research, scholarship, and publication were vital components of effective practice. Walfish provided endless support, encouragement and wisdom to others. Above all, he cherished relationships as the foundation of almost everything he did. Motivated by a commitment to bring psychology alive and make it relevant and personal to the many students, colleagues and public that he served, he has left an indelible impression on our profession. Walfish will live on in the hearts of the many who were touched by his generosity, creativity, intellectual acumen and humor.