In a ceremony that brought together global leaders and diplomats, New York leading psychologist Dr. Judy Kuriansky received the United States President’s Lifetime Achievement Award from President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. at the World Leaders Peace and Harmony Inaugural Gala. The January 21, 2025 event at Washington D.C.’s Capital Hilton Hotel recognized her life’s work in mental health, humanitarian aid, and peacebuilding.
“Mental health support must reach every community,” says Dr. Kuriansky, who splits her time between teaching at Columbia University Teachers College and advising the UN Mission of Sierra Leone. As Policy Advisor to Ambassador Sidique Wai at the Sierra Leone Embassy, she brings psychological expertise to diplomatic initiatives.
When crisis strikes, Dr. Kuriansky acts. She rushed to Ground Zero after 9/11, supported communities during the West African Ebola outbreak, and helps rebuild lives shattered by natural disasters. As a UN NGO representative, she pushes for better mental health access worldwide.
The African and Caribbean International Leadership Conference (ACILC) also presented Dr. Kuriansky their Global Peace and Humanitarian Leadership Award at the Gala. Her work in Africa tells a story of transformation – young girls learning business skills, communities gaining health resources, and partnerships forming between African nations and global organizations.
Through her books on environmental trauma, relationship psychology, and peacebuilding, Dr. Kuriansky shares practical wisdom. Her voice reaches millions through radio shows and TV commentary, while her columns tackle pressing mental health issues. She even uses music and art in her healing programs.
The Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award honors Americans with over 4,000 hours of voluntary service. Dr. Kuriansky’s work with the Red Cross, UN initiatives, and countless crisis responses far exceeds this benchmark.
“These awards reflect a simple truth,” says a colleague who has worked with Dr. Kuriansky for decades. “When communities hurt, she shows up. When systems need change, she steps forward. Her work brings psychology out of the office and into the world where it’s needed most.”
