Sara McLanahan Award

The Sara McLanahan Award

Sara McLanahanThe McLanahan Award will be given biannually in honor of Sara McLanahan, who was a remarkable scholar, mentor, and policy advisor. The award is made to a senior scholar in recognition of extraordinary contributions to the study of family change, the well-being of children and families, and related social policies.

The first award was presented in 2024 and given biennially in even years. Nominees should exemplify the highest standards of professional conduct. 

To nominate someone, please submit a description of the nominee's accomplishments, mentoring contributions, and their CV through this form.


2026 Sara McLanahan Award Winners

Janet Currie, Yale University
Jane Waldfogel, Columbia University



Past Award Recipients

  • 2024: Judith Seltzer

Recent Awards Ceremony:

Janet Currie

Jane Waldfogel

Help Grow the Award

If you would like to help PAA grow the fund for the McLanahan Award, please donate here.