Congratulations to associate professor Dionne Stephens! She was selected for APA’s National Multicultural Conference and Summit (NMCS) Shining Star Award. This award recognizes the efforts of a mid-career psychologist whose career has demonstrated a commitment to multicultural research, teaching, and advocacy, and “whose work is informed and driven by the voices and needs of the communities in which they work.”

Dr. Stephens’ research examines socio-historical factors shaping minority populations’ sexual scripting and sexual health processes, with emphasis on gender and ethnic/ racial identity development. Her research is conducted through the Heath Disparities and Cultural Identities Lab. With an ultimate goal of reducing health disparities, her research specifically examines diverse cultural beliefs’ influence on intimate relationships and sexual health decision making in marginalized populations.