Honors and AwardsDepartment of Psychological Science

Donald G. Paterson Award

The Paterson Award is presented to the outstanding Psychological Science major in Minnesota as determined by research paper competition at the Minnesota Undergraduate Psychology Conference. Gustavus annually nominates an outstanding major for the competition.

Swanson-Holcomb Undergraduate Research Award

Gustavus students majoring in the natural sciences, mathematics and computer science or psychology, may apply to receive research funding through the Swanson–Holcomb Undergraduate Research grant for equipment or supplies to enhance undergraduate research at Gustavus.

Braatz Summer Research Award

The Braatz Summer Research Award is designed for students who would like to pursue research independently (under the supervision of a Gustavus faculty member) over the summer. Since 2010, the Psychological Science Department has had this opportunity to fund living expenses and a stipend for students staying on campus for research thanks to the active philanthropy from the Rev. Gordon A. Braatz, Ph.D.

Social Justice Award

The Psychological Science Social Justice Award recognizes and supports the efforts of majors committed to fighting against injustice and for equality in systems, structures, and institutions. These efforts could include but are not limited to conducting research, developing evidence-based policy statements, increasing community knowledge, and organizing groups, activities, or events. 

Psi Chi Honor Society

Psi Chi is the international honor society of psychology. Their mission is to “encourage, stimulate, and maintain excellence in scholarship of the individual members in all fields, particularly in psychology, and to advance the science of psychology.” Members of Psi ChiI also work to promote fellowship amongst members and professionals.