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Robert Resnick, Ph.D., FAClinP, ABPP |
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Michael Wessells, Ph.D. |
Two Randolph-Macon College psychology professors received honors for lifetime achievement from the American Psychological Association. Robert Resnick, Ph.D., and Michael Wessells, Ph.D., were recognized in August 2009 during the association’s international convention in Toronto.
“Drs. Resnick and Wessells are dedicated professionals whose talented efforts have resulted in remarkable outcomes,” said R-MC President Robert Lindgren. “Through research, advocacy and indomitable spirit, Drs. Resnick and Wessells have worked to help those who might otherwise have no voice. It is with great pleasure that I congratulate these fine scholars on their richly-deserved honors.”
Dr. Robert Resnick received the Gold Medal Award for life contributions to the practice of psychology. He was also named the 2009 Psychologist of the Year by the Division of Independent Practice, the largest division in the American Psychological Association.
Resnick joined the faculty at R-MC in 1996, but his efforts to expand and increase the availability of psychological services dates back to the 1970s. He helped organize and lead the Virginia Academy of Clinical Psychologists and became a champion for freedom of choice legislation by taking on Blue Cross/Blue Shield in a legal battle that ended in the U.S. Supreme Court. In addition, his expertise won him the honor of testifying before Congress on national health and research funding in psychology.
Resnick, who is licensed to practice clinical psychology, has a dedicated interest in Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), which led him to develop and direct one of the first ADHD clinics for diagnosis and treatment. He has presented more than 25 international talks and workshops on the subjects of ADHD and prescription privileges for psychologists. In 2000 he authored the book,
The Hidden Disorder: A Clinician’s Guide to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in Adults, which was published by the American Psychological Association. Resnick earned his bachelor’s degree from Syracuse University, his master’s degree from Temple University and his Ph.D. from the University of Tennessee.
Dr. Michael Wessells received the 2009 International Humanitarian Award of the American Psychological Association, the highest honor in the profession globally for humanitarian work. He was also presented the Lifetime Achievement Award of the Division of Peace Psychology.
Wessells joined the faculty at R-MC in 1981 and has dedicated his career to addressing real world issues of conflict and peace. His research on children and armed conflict examines child soldiers, psychosocial assistance in emergencies and post-conflict reconstruction for peace. He is a Senior Child Protection Specialist for Christian Children’s Fund and regularly advises various government and international agencies on child protection and psychosocial programs and policies. He also co-chaired a U.N. task force for two years on mental health and psychosocial support in emergency settings.
Wessells, who is currently on leave from R-MC, recently received a $10,000 grant from Psychology Beyond Borders to conduct research in Sri Lanka on whether psychosocial assistance in the aftermath of armed conflict and natural disasters can inadvertently cause harm. In 2009 he authored the book,
Child Soldiers: From Violence to Protection, which was published by Harvard University Press. Wessells earned his bachelor’s degree from Roanoke College and his master’s degree and Ph.D. from the University of Massachusetts.