VCU news

By Brian McNeill

The Virginia Commonwealth University Board of Visitors has named psychology professor Everett Worthington Jr., Ph.D., a Commonwealth Professor – one of the highest distinctions that the board can bestow upon a VCU faculty member.

Worthington, a professor in the Department of Psychology in the College of Humanities and Sciences, said he is "deeply moved and grateful" for the appointment.

"I think no other recognition has touched me as deeply," Worthington said. "The honor is a reflection of the many great colleagues at VCU (and throughout the world) that I have had over the years, who have supported me, and often carried me, in research, teaching, service, and administration. Also, my wife and family have been my primary emotional support system, and I look at this as an honor we share. I could not be more grateful to all."

Candidates nominated for the rank of Commonwealth Professor must have an established prominence through extraordinary scholarly attainment, educational advancement, or leadership in an academic discipline or field of study, with national or international distinction.

Worthington has published more than 350 scholarly articles and chapters and more than 35 books during his career. He is an internationally recognized expert in the field of forgiveness and reconciliation, and is regarded as one of the two founders of the field of forgiveness studies.

Steven Danish, Ph.D., professor emeritus of psychology, wrote in a nomination letter that Worthington's work "fits the description of a leader whose scholarship merits national and international distinction."

"He has been a worldwide force to promote forgiveness and reconciliation," Danish wrote. "Through his efforts as a researcher, an intervention designer, a training of practitioners, an activist, and a speaker throughout the world, his contributions to this field have literally changed the world."

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