AABPP robert L. williams scholarship
Each academic year the Arkansas Association of Black Psychology Professionals will award a scholarship in the amount of $500.00 to a student majoring in psychology in memory of Dr. Robert L. Williams based on available funds. Additional scholarship may be awarded contingent on funds available.
Pioneer
Dr. Robert L. Williams: A Pioneer in Psychology
Dr. Robert L. Williams was a visionary psychologist who paved the way for generations of African American students in the field of psychology.
Born in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1930, Williams overcame significant obstacles to achieve his academic goals. Despite being discouraged by a low IQ test score during high school, he persisted in his pursuit of education and graduated from Philander Smith College.
Williams went on to earn a master’s degree in educational psychology and a Ph.D. in clinical psychology. Throughout his career, he held various positions in academia, research, and clinical practice, making significant contributions to the field of psychology.
One of Williams’ most notable achievements was his co-founding of the Association of Black Psychologists (ABPS) in 1968. As a charter member and president of the organization, he played a crucial role in advocating for the inclusion of African Americans in the field of psychology and breaking down racial barriers for aspiring students.
Williams was also a pioneer in the study of cultural biases in standardized testing and the development of culturally relevant assessment tools. His research on Ebonics and the Black Intelligence Test of Cultural Homogeneity (BITCH-100) challenged prevailing assumptions about intelligence and cultural differences.
Throughout his career, Dr. Williams served as a mentor and role model for countless African American students, inspiring them to pursue their academic goals and make a difference in the world. His legacy continues to inspire and motivate future generations of psychologists.
The Robert L. Williams Student Scholarship
The Robert L. Williams Student Scholarship was established in honor of a trailblazing psychologist and graduate of Philander Smith College, Dr. Robert L. Williams. This prestigious award aims to support Black students pursuing degrees in psychology and related fields, recognizing their dedication to academic excellence and their commitment to making a positive impact on the Black community.
Criteria
The Following Criteria are Required:
- Enrollment in good standing at an accredited educational institution
- Psychology major
- Financial need may be considered
The scholarship will be deposited directly to the school/institution of enrollment on behalf of the recipient to be used for educational purposes.
The following application materials are required:
- Official transcript
- Cover Letter
- Application document/form
- Letter of Recommendation
- Curriculum Vitae or Resume (Educational Experience Prioritized)
Guidelines
Eligibility and Committee Guidelines
The Executive Committee of AABPP will appoint a Scholarship Committee comprised of three members of the association. The Committee will consist of a minimum of two academicians and one AABPP professional member.
Children and/or relatives of AABPP members will be eligible to apply for the Robert L. Williams Scholarship. Relatives of the Scholarship Committee will be ineligible to apply.