Oladunni Oluwoye, PhD, an associate professor at the Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, has been awarded Washington State University’s 2026 Faculty Mid-Career Award.
This award highlights faculty who are in the early to middle stages of their careers and shows a strong dedication to the university’s mission in scholarship, teaching, and community engagement.
Dr. Naomi Chaytor, chair of the Department of Community and Behavioral Health, praised Dr. Oluwoye for her unwavering commitment to advancing health equity and improving mental health outcomes. She emphasized Dr. Oluwoye’s significant impact on both local and national levels, mentioning that her ongoing work promises even greater contributions to education and community involvement.
Dr. Oluwoye’s research focuses on early psychosis intervention and mental health issues. She aims to bridge the gap between research and practice to lower barriers to care and reduce health disparities. She has led several federally funded projects and published over 70 articles in top journals, influencing health policy across the nation.
In addition to her research, Dr. Oluwoye holds leadership positions that showcase her expertise in enhancing mental health care. She co-leads the APPROACHES Co-lab, which addresses pathways for equitable mental health services. She also leads the evaluation team for New Journeys, Washington’s initiative for coordinated care for youth and adults experiencing early psychosis. Her collaborations with the Washington State Health Care Authority and the University of Washington focus on providing training and support to improve mental health infrastructure.
Dr. Oluwoye’s influence extends to national platforms as well. Recently appointed to the National Alliance on Mental Illness’s (NAMI) Scientific Advisory Council, she joins other leaders in mental health research and advocacy. She sees this role as an opportunity to give back and promote health equity.
Beyond her research and advocacy, Dr. Oluwoye plays a key role in education. She helps lead the health equity segment in the MD program and mentors students at various academic levels.
This March, Dr. Oluwoye and other award recipients will be honored during the Celebrating Excellence Banquet as part of Showcase week in Pullman.
As of 2023, mental health issues remain a pressing concern, with studies indicating that one in five adults experiences mental illness. Dr. Oluwoye’s work is crucial in addressing these issues and ensuring that mental health care becomes more accessible and equitable for everyone.
