Baylor Psychology Professor Receives APA Mentoring Award

August 29, 2014
Wade Rowatt

Wade C. Rowatt, Ph.D.

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WACO, Texas (Aug. 29, 2014)--Wade C. Rowatt, Ph.D, professor of psychology and neuroscience in Baylor’s College of Arts & Sciences, has been awarded national mentoring award from the American Psychological Association. Rowatt was recognized for his contribution to the psychology of religion by mentoring individuals who have become active in the field.
In collaboration with students, Rowatt focuses on the study of behavioral and relationship traits such as humility, prejudice and deception.
“An apprenticeship approach gives students opportunities to get exposure to every phase of the research process,” Rowatt said. “Depending on their knowledge, skill or ability they can take ownership of the project.”
Much of the research accumulated is presented at national and international conferences. In Rowatt’s opinion, the award reflects a sustained productivity of many undergraduate and graduate student collaborators who benefited from a network of Baylor faculty members.
“This mentoring award really should be given to everybody — all the students who have ever worked in the lab. It’s reflective of the team approach,” he said.
Former student Skylar Brannon studied under Rowatt for four semesters and is now a first-year doctoral student in the department of psychology at the University of Texas at Austin.
“He allows undergraduates to play a vital role in ongoing projects in the lab, as well as to develop and carry out their own ideas, something that makes working in his lab a fruitful experience,” Brannon said. “Without Dr. Rowatt’s advice, guidance, and encouragement, I would not be in my current position.”
The American Psychological Association is the world’s largest association of scientific professionals in the United States. Rowatt’s award was granted under the APA’s 36th Division (the Society for the Psychology of Religion and Spirituality).
by Sarah Czerwinski, student newswriter, (254) 710-6895

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