Professor Leonard Jason and College of Science and Health Dean Stephanie Dance-Barnes at the CSH Alumni Reception on Nov. 13, 2024. (Photo by Nupur Bosmiya/DePaul Student Photo Agency)
Leonard Jason, professor of psychology and director of the Center for Community Research, marks his 50th year at DePaul University this academic year, cementing a legacy that has shaped both the institution and the fields of community and clinical psychology. Throughout his distinguished career, Jason has secured over $47 million in federal research grants — an extraordinary testament to his contributions.
The College of Science and Health celebrated Jason’s years of service at their Alumni Reception on Nov. 13, where they surprised him with a special award for his contributions to DePaul and beyond.
Jason’s influence extends far beyond his work. He has chaired 60 doctoral committees, guiding the next generation of scholars who are making their own significant contributions to the field. Moreover, his substantial external funding has supported DePaul’s research infrastructure and internal grants, benefiting countless faculty members at DePaul.
“I will always be grateful for Lenny’s unwavering support and guidance throughout my journey in graduate school and beyond,” says Olya Glantsman, senior professional lecturer and director of the BA-MS and MS in community psychology programs at DePaul. “His mentorship has been transformative. His dedication to my success has been a constant source of inspiration, and I am truly grateful to have him as my advisor, mentor and colleague.”
As one of the nation's leading clinical-community behavioral health psychologists, Jason has consistently addressed critical social issues, bringing both national and international recognition to DePaul. His scholarly output includes over 30 books, 900 articles and 100 book chapters in the field of community psychology. His work, cited over 34,000 times, underscores his far-reaching impact.
Jason’s influence goes beyond academia, though. His research has shaped public policy and transformed lives.
- He pioneered methods to curb underage access to tobacco, testifying before Congress during the tobacco settlement.
- His groundbreaking work on myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) laid the scientific foundation for understanding the condition, leading to his role as chair of the U.S. Research Committee of the ME/CFS Advisory Committee of the federal government.
- His research on Oxford Houses, peer-run recovery homes for individuals recovering from substance use disorders, demonstrated their effectiveness in preventing relapse, offering a proven model for substance use recovery.
- His early community-based work at DePaul focused on behavioral interventions to enhance dog waste pick-up, which later influenced ordinances in Chicago and around the globe.
“Leonard Jason is an extraordinary researcher, mentor and colleague with a deep passion for addressing issues affecting disadvantaged communities,” says Jerry Cleland, professor of psychology at DePaul. “Each year he manages millions of dollars in federal research grants while continuing to innovate new techniques in psychological research.”
Reflecting, Jason credits his longevity to “having a life blessed with liberating opportunities to engage in adventuresome research, paradigm-challenging teaching, and meaningful community-based, participatory service.”
A first-generation college student, Jason has been recognized for his contributions to helping others and driving societal change.
“[Jason] is a visionary who is able to quickly and strategically turn ideas into innovations that transform people's lives,” says Yolanda Suarez-Balcazar, professor and department head of occupational therapy at University of Illinois Chicago. “Over the years, I have admired Lenny's capacity to translate research findings into concrete practical and or policy solutions.”
According to Molly Brown, former mentee and associate professor of psychology at DePaul, “Len’s positive influence at DePaul and beyond over the past 50 years is truly immeasurable.”
Jason has dedicated his career to DePaul’s mission of service, community engagement and systemic change.