Maria Valdovinos, Ellis and Nelle Levitt Distinguished Professor of Psychology, has been selected as a recipient of the 2025 Association for Behavior Analysis International Outstanding Mentor Award. The student committee shared the following regarding her selection:
“Dr. Maria Valdovinos exemplifies transformative mentorship through her resolute dedication to nurturing both academic excellence and personal growth in her students. Her mentorship extends far beyond traditional academic roles, creating enduring professional relationships that continue to flourish long after students graduate. Former mentees consistently highlight her remarkable accessibility and genuine investment in their success, noting how she remains a trusted advisor throughout their careers. What distinguishes Dr. Valdovinos is her exceptional ability to inspire passion for behavior analysis while providing practical opportunities for growth. This approach has created a powerful ripple effect, with an impressive 95% of her undergraduate researchers advancing to graduate-level education. Dr. Valdovinos’s impact extends beyond individual mentorship to systematic change. Particularly, she demonstrates a rare combination of academic excellence and compassionate mentorship that has transformed behavior analysis education and practice throughout Iowa and beyond.”
Professor Valdovinos and fellow recipients will be recognized during the Presidential Address at the 51st Annual Convention of the Association in Washington, D.C. this May.