Chester M. Pierce Human Rights Award Grant

The Chester M. Pierce Human Rights Award, established in 1990 and renamed in 2017, honors individuals who advocate for the human rights of populations with mental health needs. This award recognizes extraordinary efforts in raising awareness about human rights abuses and provides the recipient with a $5,000 travel stipend, a plaque, and a lectureship at the APA Annual Meeting. It reflects the legacy of Dr. Chester M. Pierce, a pioneer in global mental health.

The Chester M. Pierce Human Rights Award recognizes the extraordinary efforts of individuals to promote the human rights of populations with mental health needs by bringing attention to their work. Originally established in 1990 to raise awareness of human rights abuses, the award was renamed in 2017 to honor Chester M. Pierce, MD (1927-2016) and recognize his dedication as an innovative researcher on humans in extreme environments, an advocate against disparities, stigma, and discrimination, and as a pioneer and visionary in global mental health. In 2021, the award was endowed through the efforts of the Chester M. Pierce Human Rights Endowment Campaign and the generous support of donors. The endowed award provides the awardee with a lectureship, travel stipend of $5,000, and a plaque at the APA Annual Meeting.

Eligibility

Individuals who demonstrate extraordinary efforts to promote the human rights of populations with mental health needs by bringing attention to their work.