Excellence in Professionalism Award
Melanie Bonner, PhD
Professor in Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences
Assistant Dean of Student Services in the School of Medicine
The Excellence in Professionalism Award recognizes a faculty member who exemplifies professionalism and personifies Duke’s guiding principles of respect, trustworthiness, diversity, teamwork, and learning.
Dr. Bonner’s work spans across patient care, research, education, and leadership. Since 1999, she has served as the director of the pediatric neuropsychology service, where she has trained practicum students, interns, and postdoctoral fellows. She’s also an associate member of neuro-oncology at the Duke Cancer Institute and works closely with the pediatric brain tumor program.
Dr. Bonner’s research focuses on evaluating and remediating cognitive functioning in children with illnesses that impact the central nervous system. She has co-authored more than 85 journal articles and several book chapters and has delivered more than 130 presentations and invited talks.
Dr. Bonner teaches, supervises, and mentors clinical psychology doctoral interns and graduate students, as well as teaching graduate psychology courses. From 2004 to 2015, she served as the director of graduate studies in the Department of Psychology and Neuroscience. In September 2023, Dr. Bonner was named assistant dean of student services for the School of Medicine.