Psychology professor Kristen Lindquist has been installed as the new Robert K. and Dale J. Weary Chair in Social Psychology at The Ohio State University. Her appointment to the endowed position took place in October during a reception attended by university officials and donors, as well as friends, colleagues and family from across the country.

“As a scientist, I spend a lot of time focusing on the small stuff—agonizing over data, over grant submissions, over manuscripts,” Lindquist said, shortly after accepting a medallion from Ravi V. Bellamkonda, Executive Vice President and Provost of Ohio State. 

“But moments like this remind me to take a step back, to look up from my data, to reflect and to enjoy when celebration is due. It's truly a gift to be here today.”

A pioneer in the fields of affective neuroscience and social psychology, Lindquist arrived at Ohio State this autumn, where she now leads the Affective Science Lab. Her research focuses on the psychological, physiological and neural basis of emotions, covering topics such as the effects of age-related brain and physiological differences on emotional experience, the impact of teens’ social contexts on neurobiological development, and the role of language and culture in emotion.  

Lindquist’s arrival marks a “transformative” moment for the university, Bellamkonda said, noting that her innovative work has reshaped our understanding of human emotions and their cultural influences.

The Robert K. and Dale J. Weary Chair in Social Psychology is named after the parents of Gifford Weary, a Department of Psychology professor emeritus and member of the Ohio State Foundation Board of Directors. Weary also spoke at the reception.

“Your path has led you to the top echelons of the field,” she said, congratulating Lindquist. “It’s my fervent hope that this chair and the program within which it’s embedded help support a level of achievement that is beyond that which you have already achieved.” 

Appointment to an endowed chair is one of academia’s oldest traditions and highest honors, according to university materials. Providing permanent resources to attract and retain prominent faculty, these positions foster productive partnerships with donors and elevate scholarship to the highest level.