Cynthia A. Gerhardt, PhD is the Chief Clinical Research Officer at The Abigail Wexner Research Institute at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and holds the Morrow Endowed Chair in Pediatric Behavioral Health. She is also a Professor of Pediatrics and Psychology at The Ohio State University and serves as the Pediatric Director of the OSU Center for Clinical and Translational Science.

Dr. Gerhardt received her undergraduate degree from OSU and her PhD from the University of Vermont. She completed her internship and fellowship at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center. As an APA fellow and active member of SPP for over 25 years, Dr. Gerhardt has been involved in research, clinical care, training, and leadership. In 2016, she received the Dennis Drotar Distinguished Research Award for her contributions related to family adjustment to cancer and bereavement. She has over 200 publications, with continuous funding from NIH and national foundations. Dr. Gerhardt has also enjoyed mentoring numerous students, trainees, and faculty members over the years.

Dr. Gerhardt served as Treasurer of SPP and is also a member of the editorial boards for the Journal of Pediatric Psychology and Clinical Practice in Pediatric Psychology. She has served in the JPP and SPP mentorship programs and is a member of several SIGs. Dr. Gerhardt has been an ardent advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion and was Co-Director of the SPP Anti-racism in Research Working Group. She is honored to serve as president and continue to advance our mission in pediatric psychology.