Suggestions
Arthur C. Evans, Ph.D.
CEO for American Psychological Association
Arthur C. Evans Jr., Ph.D., is the Chief Executive Officer and Executive Vice President of the American Psychological Association (APA), a position he has held since March 2017.12 He is a clinical and community psychologist known for his innovative approach to healthcare and mental health services.2
Career Highlights
-
APA Leadership: As CEO of APA, Evans leads the largest scientific and professional organization representing psychology in the United States, with over 146,000 members.2
-
Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health: Prior to joining APA, Evans served as Commissioner of Philadelphia's Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services for 12 years, where he led a significant transformation of the $1.5 billion system.23
-
Connecticut Department of Mental Health: He previously held the position of Deputy Commissioner for the Connecticut Department of Mental Health & Addiction Services.13
Education and Expertise
-
Evans holds a doctorate in clinical/community psychology from the University of Maryland and a master's degree in experimental psychology from Florida Atlantic University.12
-
He has held faculty appointments at prestigious institutions including the University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, and Drexel School of Public Health.23
Achievements and Recognition
-
Evans has been honored with numerous awards, including the American Medical Association's top government service award in healthcare and recognition as an "Advocate for Action" by the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy.34
-
He is known for his advocacy of a data-driven, population health approach to mental health care and his emphasis on health equity and social justice.34
Arthur C. Evans Jr. continues to be a prominent figure in the field of psychology, focusing on transforming mental health systems and advocating for innovative approaches to improve mental health care and outcomes.23
Highlights
Thanks to Justin Maffett, who courageously told his story last week about his journey from mental health crisis to recovery. His story makes clear that we have much more work to do to transform our approach to behavioral healthcare issues. We must use a Population Health approach and a range of strategies, including pushing for more effective and efficient services, promoting early intervention, and implementing broad-based prevention efforts. We must advocate for parity and public policies that are informed by science and the voices of lived experience. We must be courageous in reimagining our approach to mental health to ensure that all people have the opportunity for optimal psychological health. Most of all, we must not lose hope for the future and for all those pursuing the path of recovery and health. Special thanks to Patrick J. Kennedy, founder of The Kennedy Forum, Stephen Fried, Justin Maffett, and Nicholas St. Fleur
