July 10, 2025 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

New Jersey Association of School Psychologists (NJASP) Names Research Committee in Honor of Dr. Ruth Marino

 Committee Renamed to Recognize Longtime Research           Leader's Contributions to Evidence-Based Practice

HAMILTON, NJ - The New Jersey Association of School Psychologists (NJASP) has announced      that its Research Committee will be renamed the Ruth Marino Research Committee in honor of Dr. Ruth Marino's exceptional leadership and decades of contributions to research and evidence-based practice in school psychology.

Dr. Marino, who passed away in November 2024, dedicated more than 30 years of service to NJASP in various leadership roles. Her legacy of advancing the field through rigorous research and commitment to evidence-based practices will continue to inspire future generations of school psychologists.

A Legacy of Research Excellence

Dr. Marino served as NJASP's Research Committee Chair for decades, leading efforts to bridge research and practice in school psychology. She coordinated research initiatives, organized membership surveys, and secured publisher donations of materials and assessment tools for conference raffles. These fundraising efforts supported psychology undergraduate and graduate students through the Minority Scholarship program, demonstrating her commitment to fostering diversity in the profession.

"The research committee was Ruth's passion," said NJASP leadership. "Her ability to translate complex research into practical applications that directly benefited children made her an invaluable leader in advancing our profession."

With a PhD in Educational Psychology from Temple University, Dr. Marino brought both theoretical expertise and practical experience from her 36-year career as a school psychologist in New Jersey schools. She was known for her sharp analytical mind, commitment to rigorous research standards, and fierce advocacy for children. Her international involvement with the International School Psychology Association further demonstrated her dedication to advancing research globally.

Continuing the Mission

The Ruth Marino Research Committee will continue its mission of conducting and supporting research while disseminating findings through publications and presentations. The committee is dedicated to bridging the gap between research and practice, ensuring that evidence-based insights translate into meaningful improvements for children and strengthen the profession of school psychology. Following Dr. Marino's example of service to vulnerable populations and commitment to social justice, the committee will prioritize research that addresses the needs of underserved communities and promotes equity in educational settings. This work honors Dr. Marino's vision of research that serves both practitioners and the communities they support, embodying her belief in transforming society through dedicated service and advocacy for justice.

"This naming honors Ruth's legacy while ensuring her commitment to research excellence continues to guide our work," noted NJASP officials. "The committee will carry forward her vision of research that directly serves children and supports practitioners."

Beyond her research leadership, Dr. Marino also served as NJASP President, Southern Delegate, and Secretary during her tenure with the organization. She was deeply committed to social justice and environmental stewardship, embodying core values of respect, peacemaking, and service. Dr. Marino dedicated herself to helping those in need, particularly vulnerable populations and young people, through hands-on service and advocacy. Her mentorship extended beyond students in the field to include anyone seeking guidance, reflecting her belief in working for peace and justice to transform society for the better.

About NJASP

The New Jersey Association of School Psychologists, founded in 1968, is a professional organization dedicated to promoting the welfare of children and youth by advancing the profession of school psychology through advocacy, professional development, and research.

For more information about NJASP or the Ruth Marino Research Committee, contact Terri Allen, New Jersey Association of School Psychologists, njasp.web@gmail.com 

www.njasp.org