By Vincent Lim
Since 1972, the American Public Health Association (APHA) has honored many eminent scientists who have made significant contributions to the understanding of the epidemiology and control of mental disorders with its Rema Lapouse Award. This year’s recipient is William Vega, provost professor and executive director of the USC Edward R. Roybal Institute on Aging at the USC School of Social Work.
“There is a long list of notable scholars in mental health and epidemiology research who have received the award, so I feel very proud to be honored by the American Public Health Association,” Vega said. “It gives me a very special sense of satisfaction that my work has been appreciated and considered a significant contribution to the field.”
Vega was presented the award at APHA’s 141st Annual Meeting in Boston. Established by Dr. Milton Torres in honor of his wife, Rema Lapouse, the award is given each year by the Mental Health, Epidemiology and Statistics Sections of APHA — one of the oldest, largest and most diverse organizations of public health professionals in the world.
“William Vega was the unanimous choice of the selection committee based on the depth and range of his contributions to understanding social and cultural disparities in mental health and substance use, particularly for Latino populations,” said Ezra Susser, a professor of epidemiology and psychiatry at Columbia University, who chaired the APHA selection committee that unanimously voted for Vega to be this year’s honoree.