Barbara McCrady, Distinguished Professor of Psychology, and Director of UNM's Center on Alcoholism, Substance Abuse, and Addictions (CASAA), received the Research Society on Alcoholism RSA Marlatt Mentorship Award at the RSA’s annual meeting in New Orleans recently.

This award is given to an individual whose mentoring of young researchers in the alcohol research field is demonstrated to be exceptional. Recipients of this award receive a plaque and cash award at the annual meeting.

“Mentoring students has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career. I am delighted to receive this award,” said McCrady.

McCrady, over her career at Brown, Rutgers, and now at The University of New Mexico, has had impact on a great many later-to-be scientists and research clinicians. In parallel to her own prestigious career of work in alcohol use disorder treatment research, she has been the major advisor to more than 35 doctoral students and has taught, supervised, and mentored a much larger group of research and clinical trainees, all of whom remember her unyielding support and commitment to the development and facilitation of their careers and intense dedication to them, both professionally and personally.

As one of the nominees noted, “Despite their accomplishments, both [Dr. McCrady and Dr. Marlatt] were eager to spend time with individuals more junior, to help pave the way for young scientists and to do so in a supportive, generous way.  She is an ideal candidate to honor Alan’s memory.”

UNM Vice President for Research, Gabriel López, added: “Dr. McCrady’s commitment to research excellence and developing tomorrow’s researchers and clinicians is remarkable and this award is well-deserved. She is a fantastic colleague and asset to UNM.”