Western Psychological Association Honors Professor Melinda Blackman

Melinda A. Blackman will receive the Western Psychological Association’s “Outstanding Teaching Award” in April.

By Mimi Ko Cruz, California State University Fullerton Staff Writer | Originally posted on Jan. 8, 2013

“I am just thrilled beyond words and am delighted to join the ranks of the amazing and accomplished past winners of this award,” said Blackman of Newport Beach.

Nominating her for the award were her fellow Cal State Fullerton psychology professors Jack Mearns, department chair; Allen W. Gottfried and Richard A. Lippa; and David Funder, a UC Riverside psychology professor.

“Melinda’s commitment to teaching is pervasive and profound,” Gottfried wrote in his nomination letter, which included a long list of examples of Blackman’s teaching and mentoring skills. “She turns every aspect of her scholarship into an educational benefit for psychology students.

“Melinda’s contribution to educating students extends beyond the boundaries of her academic institution,” Gottfried noted, adding that Blackman serves as a mentor in the university’s Ronald E. McNair Scholars program and as coordinator of the department’s graduate program.

Blackman’s students have rated her among the best professors on campus, characterizing her as a “caring,” “enthusiastic” and “motivational” teacher and role model.

Author of “Mind Your Diet” and “Nutrition Psychology,” Blackman, who holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Stanford University and a master’s degree and doctorate in social/personality psychology from UC Riverside, joined CSUF’s faculty in 1996.

Her tenure has been marked with a number of teaching awards, including the CSUF Carol Barnes Excellence in Teaching Award in 2007 and the 2011 Distinguished Faculty Member Award from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, as well as five Psychology Teacher of the Year awards bestowed by psychology majors.