Peter Salovey Yale University

Peter Salovey is a renowned American psychologist and academic administrator, currently serving as the 23rd President of Yale University. Born on February 21, 1958, in Solon, Ohio, Salovey developed a strong interest in psychology from an early age. He pursued his undergraduate degree at Stanford University, graduating in 1980 with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Salovey then went on to earn his Master's and Ph.D. in Psychology from Yale University in 1983 and 1986, respectively.

Early Career and Academic Contributions

Salovey’s academic career began as a professor of psychology at Yale University, where he taught and conducted research in the areas of emotional intelligence, health behavior, and positive psychology. His work, along with that of John D. Mayer, led to the development of the emotional intelligence theory, which suggests that individuals possess a unique set of skills that enable them to recognize and understand emotions in themselves and others. This theory has had a significant impact on the field of psychology and has been applied in various settings, including education and business.

Research and Publications

Salovey has published numerous articles and book chapters on emotional intelligence, health behavior, and positive psychology. Some of his notable publications include “Emotional Intelligence” (1990), a paper co-authored with John D. Mayer, and “The Wisdom of Feelings: Processes Underlying Emotional Intelligence” (2002), a book co-authored with John D. Mayer and David R. Caruso. His research has been funded by various organizations, including the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation.

Administrative Career

In 2003, Salovey was appointed as the Dean of Yale College, a position he held until 2008. During his tenure, he implemented various initiatives to improve undergraduate education, including the creation of a new curriculum and the establishment of the Yale College Dean’s Office. In 2008, he was appointed as the Provost of Yale University, responsible for overseeing the university’s academic programs and research initiatives. Salovey played a key role in the development of the Yale University Science Building and the Yale Center for Engineering Innovation and Design.

Presidency of Yale University

In 2013, Salovey was appointed as the 23rd President of Yale University, succeeding Richard C. Levin. As president, he has overseen various initiatives, including the expansion of the university’s online education programs and the development of the Yale Entrepreneurial Institute. Salovey has also been a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion on campus, implementing various programs to support underrepresented students and faculty.

Under Salovey's leadership, Yale University has made significant strides in fundraising, with the university's endowment growing from $19.4 billion in 2013 to over $31.2 billion in 2022. The university has also launched various initiatives to support innovation and entrepreneurship, including the creation of the Yale Startup Foundry and the Yale Center for Business and the Environment.

Peter Salovey’s work on emotional intelligence and his leadership as President of Yale University have had a significant impact on the field of psychology and higher education. His commitment to diversity and inclusion, innovation and entrepreneurship, and academic excellence has positioned Yale University as a leader in these areas.