Outstanding Doctoral Dissertation Award

Dr. Swerbenski recently earned her PhD in Developmental Psychology from the University of Rochester, where she completed an outstanding dissertation titled Measurement and Analytical Issues in the Study of Maltreatment Sequelae and Related Intergenerational Processes. Through a series of innovative studies, her work advanced our understanding of how child maltreatment impacts individuals and families across generations.

 

Her research exemplifies scientific rigor, policy relevance, and translational impact. Hannah combined advanced statistical methods, novel measurement development, and strengths-based approaches to clarify pathways of risk and resilience in maltreatment-exposed families. Her work has already been published in leading journals, presented nationally, and recognized with competitive research awards, including a prestigious NIH F31 Fellowship.

 

Hannah’s commitment to child protection extends beyond research. Through mentorship, science communication, and policy engagement, she is already shaping the future of child maltreatment prevention and intervention.