Psychology professor Catherine Cooper traveled this summer to Germany, where she was honored for her contributions to the field of human development.
Cooper received the 2008 Distinguished Scientific Award for the Applications of Behavioral Development, Theory and Research from the International Society for the Study of Behavioral Development (ISSBD). The award honors researchers whose contributions have helped ameliorate important practical problems. Recipients are recognized for work that contributes not only to science but to society.
In presenting the award to Cooper, the chair of the selection committee said members felt Cooper's work exemplified the spirit of the award. The award citation specifically acknowledges Cooper's work establishing the Bridging Multiple Worlds Alliance, forging international alliances on behalf of youth, and contributing theoretical innovations with methodological rigor.
Cooper is the director of the Bridging Multiple Worlds Alliance, which supports low-income, immigrant, and ethnic minority youth in building pathways to college and careers without giving up ties to their families and cultural communities. The alliance is an interdisciplinary network of researchers, educators, and policy makers working together to create a more seamless pathway from preschool through graduate and professional school.
Cooper accepted the award during the business meeting of the 2008 biennial meeting of ISSBD in Würzburg, Germany.
