The Society for the Teaching of Psychology (STP), Division 2 of the American Psychological Association, is committed to supporting and enhancing the teaching of psychology. They aim to encourage educational excellence, foster an inclusive and equitable academic environment, and promote the professional development of psychology educators. They are also focused on addressing systemic racism and inequity within their scope, advocating for diversity and inclusion in the field.
The STP awards program is designed to recognize outstanding teachers of psychology, emphasizing support for individuals from underrepresented groups and those with diverse backgrounds and experiences. It offers teaching awards in six categories, each accompanied by $1500 and a plaque, to honor individuals who have demonstrated excellence in teaching psychology. One notable category is the Wilbert J. McKeachie Teaching Excellence Award, specifically aimed at graduate students showing outstanding performance based on criteria such as influencing student interest in psychology, developing effective teaching methods/materials, excellence in classroom teaching, and a strong professional identity as a psychology teacher. The award encourages recognition of achievements across diverse components of teaching excellence, rather than requiring accomplishment in all areas.