UW–Madison School of Education faculty member Stephanie Budge has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Distinguished Contribution to Public Policy Award from the American Psychological Association’s Division 44 — the Society for the Psychological Study of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity.
According to the APA, the award honors “distinguished contributions to public policy that advance the liberation and equality of LGBTQ+ communities.” Budge, a professor in the Department of Counseling Psychology, was recognized at the APA convention in Denver during the division’s awards ceremony on Aug. 8.
“I am deeply honored to receive the Distinguished Contribution to Public Policy Award from the American Psychological Association’s Society for the Psychology of Sexual Orientation and Gender Diversity,” Budge said. “This recognition affirms the vital role of psychological science and ethical practice in advancing policies that center and serve LGBTQ+ communities.”
Over the past year, Budge has played a central role in several high-profile initiatives. She has helped write three amicus briefs submitted to the United States Supreme Court through the APA, led a cross-divisional APA policy team producing research statements on medically necessary care for transgender youth, and was one of three primary authors of a landmark APA policy statement affirming evidence-based inclusive care for transgender, gender diverse, and nonbinary individuals.
Adopted on Feb. 24, 2024, this APA resolution supports gender-affirming care for both youth and adults, opposes policies that block access to such care, and addresses the spread of false information that can harm transgender and nonbinary people. According to Division 44 leaders, this marked the first time APA had taken such a public stance.
“This public statement is incredibly timely, as we have anti-trans legislation active in the legislatures of many states, and these bills are increasingly draconian,” said Division 44 Council Representative Mira C. Jourdan, who collaborated with Budge and others on the effort. Jourdan noted that the resolution passed with more than 93% of votes cast in favor, thanks to a broad coalition of APA members, divisions, and state associations.
Budge — who also recently received word that she was being welcomed as a fellow within the Society of Counseling Psychology (SCP; Division 17) of the APA — said she hopes this recognition not only honors past work but also energizes continued collaboration. “The award is a recognition that sound science drives sound public policy that can and should be leveraged to ensure everyone has access to effective and compassionate care.”