Aaron T. Beck, M.D., often called "the father of cognitive therapy," received the Heinz Award in the Human Condition for his pioneering breakthrough in finding effective treatment of psychological disorders in millions of individuals suffering mental and behavioral health challenges.
The Award, given by the Heinz Family Foundation in memory of Senator John Heinz, was presented at a ceremony in the Folger Shakespeare Library, Washington, D.C., on March 5, 2001.
"Few people revolutionize their fields in the way that Dr. Aaron Beck has the field of psychology," Teresa Heinz, Chairman of the Heinz Family Foundation, said. "His bold insights into the power of the human mind fundamentally challenged the accepted wisdom of his profession and ultimately changed it. And as new applications for cognitive therapy continue to be found… his impact on the human condition will only increase."
The Heinz Family Foundation was established by Senator John Heinz III in 1984. The Heinz Awards were first presented in 1994 by Teresa Heinz to recognize outstanding leaders in areas in which her late husband was most active. Dr. Beck is the first University of Pennsylvania professor to win the award.
