Feature Stories
William S. Davidson, '69
Dr. William S. Davidson, II, is a university distinguished professor at Michigan State University and editor in chief of the American Journal of Community Psychology. He is also a senior scientist with the Michigan Public Health Institute at MSU and director of their adolescent diversion program.
Davidson earned a bachelor's degree in behavioral science from Grand Valley State University in 1969. He continued on to earn a master's degree in 1973, and a Ph.D. in 1976, both from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
He began his distinguished career with Michigan State's Department of Psychology in 1975. In addition to his current appointments, he was formerly the chair of the ecological and community psychology graduate training program and professor of psychology.
He has become one of the nation's preeminent authorities on behavioral psychology, with much of his research focusing on issues such as the juvenile justice system, violence against women and the prevention of child abuse. He travels extensively for speaking engagements throughout the country, is a widely-published author, and holds a host of prominent review and consulting positions.
For his innovative research and his exemplary work in the classroom and the community, Dr. Davidson has received a multitude of accolades. He has been honored by such prestigious organizations as the United Nations, the American Psychological Association, the United States Department of Health, Education and Welfare, and the State of Michigan Governor's Office, in addition to his numerous awards from Michigan State University. In 2001, Davidson joined an elite group of MSU faculty having received the title of university distinguished professor.
William and his wife Mary reside in Williamston, MI.
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