Three University of Alabama professors in the College of Community Health Sciences have been named Distinguished Fellows by the American Psychiatric Association for their commendable work in the field of mental health.

Lori Lynne Davis, Thaddeus P. Ulzen and Lloyda Broomes Williamson earned this honor for their in-depth work and experience in the field of psychiatric care and studies.

Ulzen is a professor and chairman of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine and Interim Dean of the College of Community Health Sciences at UA. Ulzen attended the University of Ghana Medical School.

Williamson is an assistant professor in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences. She has worked in the fields of community mental health, intensive residential facility for child and adolescents, private practice and as a consultant for a state hospital and a residential facility for girls in the juvenile justice system.

Williamson and Ulzen both work with Tuscaloosa area patients through the Betty Shirley Clinic at the University Medical Center on the corner of University Blvd. and 5th Avenue East. Davis is an affiliate professor at CCHS Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine.

“I take opportunities to also discuss strengths and resources individuals may have in those same health areas that may contribute some relief to those areas of emotional problems,” said Williamson said, who has had an in-depth career researchingpsychological activity in young people, families and children.

“These members have achieved distinction in special areas of psychiatry and possess depth of knowledge and breadth of skills that are recognized and highly respected,” said Alabama Psychiatric Physicians Association President Dr. David D. Harwood in a press release. “Carrying these marks of distinction not only elevates the professional, but it also elevates the profession itself.”

Davis, Williamson and Ulzen will be formally recognized at the APA’s 165th annual meeting in Philadelphia this May.