Harold Lasswell Award for Outstanding Scientific Accomplishment in Political Psychology
Kristen Monroe, University of California-Irvine

Kristen Monroe is a Chancellor's Distinguished Professor of Political Science and Ethics at UC Irvine, where she has made her esteemed mark over a remarkable career spanning 38 years. Additionally, she holds a prominent leadership role as the head of the UCI Ethics Center.

Having imparted her knowledge and expertise at prestigious institutions like the University of British Columbia, New York University, SUNY at Stony Brook, and Princeton University, Kristen Monroe's commitment to education and research is profound.

In addition to her exceptional scholarly pursuits, Kristen Monroe has been actively engaged in numerous Scientific Societies, serving as the President of ISPP from 2007 to 2008, and holding the position of Vice President for both the American Political Science Association and the Midwest Political Science Association, further solidifying her influential presence in the academic community.

Kristen's influential work on altruism and moral decision-making is encapsulated in an impressive trilogy of award-winning books, complemented by 17 other books authored or co-edited, and a remarkable collection of nearly 100 journal articles and chapters.

Her contributions to the field have garnered wide recognition, evidenced by two Pulitzer nominations, a National Book Award nomination, several Best Book awards and honorable mentions from the American Political Science Association, as well as prestigious lifetime achievement awards from the International Society of Political Psychology. Kristen Monroe's exceptional career has also been honored with UCI's Distinguished Research Award and the 2010 Paul Silverman Award for Outstanding Work in Ethics.

The Harold Lasswell Award for Outstanding Scientific Accomplishment in Political Psychology is a fitting recognition of Kristen Monroe's invaluable contributions to the field. Her dedication to ethical scholarship and the pursuit of knowledge continues to inspire and leave a lasting impact on the political psychology community.

Nevitt Sanford Award for Outstanding Professional Contributions to Political Psychology
Anna Kende, Eötvös Loránd University

Professor Anna Kende is an esteemed scholar and professor of social psychology at Eötvös Loránd University, Budapest. As the Director of the Institute of Psychology and Head of the Department of Social Psychology, Prof. Kende's leadership has been instrumental in advancing research and fostering academic excellence.

Her research revolves around vital issues of intergroup relations, with a specific focus on investigating the psychological underpinnings of social change, particularly in prejudice reduction and engagement in social movements. Prof. Kende's work holds significant implications as she unravels the dynamics that influence societal attitudes and behaviors.

With a dedication to impactful research, Prof. Kende has actively participated in and coordinated several international research projects, funded by the EU, as well as national and international organizations. Her commitment to understanding the situation of structurally disadvantaged groups reflects her passion for promoting social equity and advocating for marginalized populations. In addition to her research accomplishments, Prof. Kende has published several papers addressing issues of diversity and inclusion in science and publication. Her contributions to both basic and applied research have been acknowledged in leading international journals.

David O. Sears Best Book on Mass Politics Award
Kathleen Powers, Dartmouth College
For “Nationalisms in International Politics”

Kathleen Powers is an esteemed assistant professor in the Department of Government at Dartmouth College. Powers’ book, "Nationalisms in International Politics," published by Princeton University Press, marks a novel contribution to scientific literature by presenting an original perspective on nationalism through the lens of social psychology.

In her work, Kathleen Powers challenges the traditional stigma associated with nationalism as merely a source of conflict in international politics, driven by xenophobia, competition, and even violence. Instead, she offers an alternative interpretation that emphasizes equality and reciprocity among individuals, fostering civic engagement and paving the way for forms of international cooperation. Drawing on U.S. experiments and European surveys involving both laypeople and elite, Kathleen illuminates how these two contrasting forms of nationalism coexist, shaping distinct identity processes. Her rigorous vision challenges conventional notions of nationalism, equipping us with valuable tools to navigate contemporary realities and address pressing issues.

Juliette and Alexander L. George Outstanding Political Psychology Book Award
Allison P. Anoll, Vanderbilt University
For “The Obligation Mosaic: Race and Social Norms in U.S. Political Participation”

Allison P. Anoll, is a distinguished Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Science at Vanderbilt University. Anoll's groundbreaking book, "The Obligation Mosaic: Race and Social Norms in U.S. Political Participation," published by The University of Chicago Press, uncovers the systematic variations in political engagement based on race in the United States. By shedding light on the psychological micro foundations of racial dynamics in political participation, her work significantly advances our understanding of representation and its broader consequences.

With her influential contributions to political science, Allison P. Anoll stands as a remarkable scholar whose work continues to inspire and enrich the field.

Jim Sidanius Early Career Award
Aleksandra Cichocka, University of Kent

Aleksandra Cichocka is a distinguished Professor of Political Psychology and the MSc Political Psychology Programme Director.

Completing her PhD in Psychology at the University of Warsaw in 2013, Aleksandra Cichocka's pursuit of knowledge led her to become a Fulbright Fellow at New York University during her doctoral studies. Her academic journey brought her to Kent, where she now leads the renowned Political Psychology Lab.

Dr. Cichocka's research delves into the profound impact of self-perceptions and group affiliations on political attitudes and behaviors. From investigating the links between narcissism and political beliefs to exploring collective narcissism's social and political implications, her work offers valuable insights into contemporary political dynamics.

The Jim Sidanius Early Career Award recognizes Aleksandra Cichocka's groundbreaking contributions and sets the stage for a promising and influential career in political psychology. Her dedication to advancing knowledge in this field continues to inspire researchers and students alike.

John L. Sullivan Mentorship Award
Cristina Montiel, Ateneo de Manila University

Cristina J Montiel, a Professor Emeritus at the Loyola Schools of Ateneo de Manila University, is celebrated for her remarkable achievements and unwavering commitment to mentorship. With an illustrious career spanning over four decades at Ateneo de Manila, Cristina has made a profound impact as a peace/political psychology professor.

Her scholarly contributions are truly exceptional, encompassing over 100 peer-reviewed academic papers on critical topics such as Mindanao peace-building and the psychology of democratic transitions. Her work has been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Ralph White Lifetime Achievement Award from the American Psychological Association’s Peace Psychology Division in 2010 and the Outstanding Psychologist title from the Psychological Association of the Philippines in 2016.

Cristina Montiel's dedication to mentorship is equally impressive, with a history of guiding and inspiring undergraduate students, graduate students, and postdoctoral scholars throughout their academic and professional journeys. Her mentorship has left a lasting impact on the lives of many, shaping the next generation of scholars.

With her election to the esteemed National Academy of Science and Technology (NAST), Prof. Montiel's contributions to science and technology have received the highest recognition. As a valued member of NAST, her expertise and insights will continue to shape the landscape of social sciences, inspiring future generations of researchers and scholars.

Best Dissertation Award
Hanna Szekeres, Eötvös Loránd University
For “The failure to confront prejudice”

Hanna Szekeres is an Assistant Professor within the Department of Social Psychology at Eötvös Loránd University. Her outstanding thesis, "The failure to confront prejudice," delves into the profound intergroup consequences of bystanders' inaction against prejudice. Through a series of experimental and longitudinal studies conducted in the U.S. and Hungary, she unveils a significant finding - those who had the opportunity to confront prejudice but chose not to, endorsed more negative outgroup attitudes compared to the control group and even their initial attitudes. This tendency seemingly emerged as a justification for their prior inaction.

Impressively, Prof. Szekeres also developed an effective intervention that encouraged people to speak up against prejudice, resulting in positive behavioral changes in confronting discriminatory acts. Her work, published in prestigious journals such as the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology and Group Processes and Intergroup Relations, showcases her rigorous approach and methodological expertise.

By demonstrating how unaddressed prejudice perpetuates and intensifies in society, Prof. Szekeres has made a substantial theoretical and methodological contribution to the literature. Her innovative research offers valuable insights into combating prejudice and fostering intergroup harmony, further enriching the field of social psychology.

HONORABLE MENTIONS - Best Dissertation Award

Eric Shuman, New York University & Harvard Business School
For Generating constructive disruption: How disadvantaged groups can negotiate social change in the face of resistance from the advantaged

Eric Shuman's thesis, "Generating constructive disruption: How disadvantaged groups can negotiate social change in the face of resistance from the advantaged," delves into the intricate dynamics of collective action and its potential to drive social change. Impressively ambitious in its scope, his dissertation stands out both theoretically and methodologically, leading to a series of remarkable high-level publications. The Award Committee was profoundly impressed by Mr. Shuman’s remarkable ability to translate his research into tangible social change.

Edward Scott, University of Houston
For Making Justice: A Multimethod Qualitative Study of Activist Identity Formation and Political Imagination(s) Among Black Adolescents

Edward Scott’s thesis, "Making Justice: A Multimethod Qualitative Study of Activist Identity Formation and Political Imagination(s) Among Black Adolescents," represents a groundbreaking exploration of socially motivated advocates of racial equality. Through in-depth interviews and meticulous research, he unveils the pivotal role of community organizing units, such as Black families and peer networks, in empowering and nurturing the political engagement of Black adolescents.

The implications of Mr. Scott's findings are immense, shedding light on the social and psychological factors that underlie political activism among minoritized groups. His work has not only advanced academic knowledge but also carries tremendous potential for creating positive social change. Mr. Scott's dedication to understanding and amplifying the voices of marginalized communities is truly commendable. His thesis serves as a testament to the transformative power of research in fostering a more inclusive and equitable society.

Tom Nijs, Utrecht University
For This place is ours: Collective psychological ownership and its social consequences

Mr. Nijs's thesis, "This place is ours: Collective psychological ownership and its social consequences," delves into the profound impact of collective psychological ownership on society. His ambitious and theoretically mature approach stands out as he skillfully analyzes both the negative and prosocial consequences of feelings of ownership.

Through a masterful integration of surveys, experiments, and other empirical methodologies, Mr. Nijs skillfully addresses pressing theoretical questions, showcasing his extraordinary research acumen. The Award Committee was deeply impressed by his innovative work and the breadth of his research, which holds significant implications for our understanding of collective ownership and its effects on social dynamics.

Hannah Waldfogel, Princeton University
For Ideology and Perceptions of Inequality

In Hannah Waldfogel’s thesis, "Ideology and Perceptions of Inequality," she explores the ideological motivations that shape differing interpretations of inequality. Her research reveals the significant disparities in views between individuals on the political left and right regarding the extent of inequality in our world. Ms. Waldfogel's insights shed light on the profound impact of ideology on our perceptions and understanding of this issue, offering valuable contributions to the field and enhancing our comprehension of the complex dynamics between ideology and perceptions of inequality.

Roberta Sigel Best Conference Paper by Early Career Member Award 1
Nicholas Haas, Aarhus University and Emmy Lindstam, University Of Mannheim
“My History or Our History? Historical Revisionism and Entitlement to Lead”

Nicholas Haas and Emma Lindstam’s research offers an innovative perspective on the impact of inclusive versus exclusive representations of a nation's history on marginalized groups. Focusing on India as their test case, the authors conducted experimental studies to examine how historical narratives shaped by religious identity (Hindu versus Muslim) influence individual’s perceptions of their centrality to the nation, their sense of authorization to speak on its behalf, and their potential for leadership roles. The results revealed that exposure to inclusive historical narratives significantly increased the perceived centrality of Muslim participants to the nation, their entitlement to represent India, and their willingness to take on leadership responsibilities. This compelling empirical evidence underscores the far-reaching implications of historical debates, demonstrating that they extend beyond cultural clashes to profoundly impact inclusivity and representation in diverse societies. Haas’s and Lindstam's work is a critical contribution to understanding the power of historical narratives in shaping modern societies.

Roberta Sigel Best Conference Paper by Early Career Member Award 2 (for best paper with an Early Career Scholar as lead author)
Jasper Van Assche, Ghent University/ Université Libre de Bruxelles, Belgium
“Intergroup Contact is Reliably Associated with Reduced Prejudice Even in the Face of Group Threat and Discrimination”

Jasper Van Assche's extensive research delves into the role of intergroup contact as a means to combat prejudice in the midst of intergroup conflict. While intergroup contact has been advocated by social and political psychologists, skepticism remains regarding its efficacy in situations where dominant groups perceive a threat to their position, and disadvantaged groups experience discrimination. Addressing this critical gap in the literature, Van Assche and his team conducted a far-reaching meta-analysis, examining data from 34 studies across 19 countries. The results are nothing short of significant, as they demonstrate that intergroup contact effectively reduces prejudice, even among dominant-group members facing perceived threats and disadvantaged groups experiencing discrimination. Remarkably, the positive effects of contact hold true both in WEIRD (Western, Educated, Industrialized, Rich, and Democratic) and non-WEIRD contexts. By confirming the potency of intergroup contact, even under the most challenging conditions, Van Assche and colleagues' findings provide valuable insights that address a major theoretical concern about the limits of contact as a strategy for reducing prejudice.

Noel Markwell Media Award
Bob Woodward, The Washington Post

Bob Woodward, an esteemed Associate Editor of The Washington Post since 1971, is a highly acclaimed journalist and two-time Pulitzer Prize winner. His groundbreaking coverage of the Watergate scandal, alongside Carl Bernstein, remains one of the greatest journalistic efforts in history. With 18 national bestsellers to his name, including "All the President's Men," Woodward's influence in political reporting is unparalleled. The Award Committee awards the Markwell Media Award to The Washington Post for its coverage of the January 6th events and to Bob Woodward for his exceptional coverage of political corruption from Watergate to Trump.

Jeanne Knutson Award
Melinda Jackson, San Jose State University

Melinda Jackson, Associate Dean of Political Science at San Jose State University, has demonstrated unparalleled commitment to the International Society of Political Psychology (ISPP). Throughout her distinguished career, Melinda has held multiple pivotal roles within the society, showcasing her exceptional dedication and service.

As a two-term ISPP Governing Council member (2008-2011, 2014-2017), Melinda played an instrumental role in shaping the society's direction and fostering a collaborative environment for political psychologists worldwide. During her tenure as ISPP Treasurer (2018-2023), she ensured the financial stability and growth of the organization, contributing significantly to ISPP's continued success.

In addition to her governance roles, Melinda served as the editor of ISPPNews and Director of Communications from 2008 to 2013, skillfully guiding the distribution of crucial information within the society. Her leadership as the Early Career Chair from 2006 to 2007 and later as ISPP Program Chair in 2015 further exemplifies her dedication to advancing the field of political psychology.