Antonio Cepeda-Benito, dean of faculties for Texas A&M University, has been named in Hispanic Business Magazine as one of the Top 100 Influential Hispanics.
"Obviously I'm honored and very happy with the recognition, as it is a nice feather on my hat, and gives my kids some bragging rights and motivates them to feel proud of their 'papá,'" Cepeda-Benito said.
He graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and received his doctorate in psychology from Purdue University.
His career at A&M began in 1994 as an assistant professor, and he was promoted to professor of psychology in 2005. Earlier this year he was appointed as the dean of faculties and associate provost.
"I'm mindful that this recognition may speak more of the high reputation and caliber of Texas A&M University than of my own achievements," Cepeda-Benito said.
The research that Cepeda-Benito has focused on combines behavioral neuroscience and clinical psychology to try and understand drug addiction and eating disorders.
Paul Wellman, a professor in the Department of Psychology has known Cepeda-Benito for several years and collaborated with him on his research.
"I certainly think he merits the honor, he's received several Hispanic related research honors he has a national presence," Wellman said. "It's not surprising at all that he's been named in the Top 100."
Cepeda-Benito has received many awards while at Texas A&M. He's won the psychology Teacher of the Year and received two National Awards for Excellence from the National Hispanic Science Network on Drug Abuse.
Megan Clark, a senior biochemistry major who has been a student worker in the Dean of Faculties office since November 2007 said Cepeda-Benito deserves the award and is a great person to work for.
"I think it's great that he's been recognized, he's very good at what he does," Clark said. "He's always very cordial and nice and treats the office really well."
Cepeda-Benito added that he owes much to the opportunities he's been given at Texas A&M.
"I feel fortunate to have been given the opportunity to serve this great University by assuming an important leadership role. I also feel indebted to the many friends and colleagues who have supported and mentored me throughout the years," he said.
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