Berger named fellow of American Psychological Association

Dr. Bonnie Berger, sport management, was granted the status of fellow by the American Psychological Association (APA) this month in the 47th Division – Exercise and Sport Psychology. She was the only fellow named in the division at the national level.

Fellows are nominated by peers in the organization and must meet minimum requirements as outlined by the association. The fellow status is bestowed upon current APA members who have shown evidence of unusual and outstanding contributions or performance in the field of psychology, as stated on the APA website. Furthermore, a nominee’s work must have a national impact on the field of psychology beyond a local, state or regional level.

“This nomination is wonderful recognition of Dr. Berger's commitment and dedication to her field,” said Dr. Dawn Shinew, interim dean of the College of Education and Human Development. “This honor is a great reflection on her, as well as the college.”

Berger has contributed numerous articles and been selected to deliver the keynote speech in the area of exercise and sport psychology at several national conferences. Most recently, she gave the Exchange Lecture sponsored by the APA at the American College of Sport Medicine annual conference.

At BGSU, she teaches undergraduate and graduate courses related to exercise and sport psychology for the School of Human Movement, Sport and Leisure Studies. Her research interests include the impact of physical activity on mood enhancement; use of physical activity for stress management and specific exercise characteristics that maximize the psychological benefits of participation in sport and exercise.

Berger’s appointment comes after the publication of the third edition of her textbook “Foundations of Exercise Psychology.”