Longtime American Psychological Association CEO announces plans to step down on January 3, 2028.
On Tuesday, September 22, the American Psychological Association (APA) announced that Arthur C. Evans Jr., PhD, will retire on January 3, 2028. The Kennedy Forum celebrates a leader whose compassion, scientific rigor, and determination have changed what we believe is possible for mental health and addiction care.
Arthur’s influence extends well beyond any institution. Across decades of service, he has helped bring mental health into the mainstream of American life, advancing the understanding that it is essential to our health, our communities, and our collective future.
“Arthur is a giant in this work,” said Patrick J. Kennedy, co-founder of The Kennedy Forum. “He understands the mechanisms of system change, while acknowledging the humanity of every person or family that system is intended to serve. His legacy will carry on through the work he’s enabled, but will be felt in the wisdom, empathy, and leadership we all experienced. Personally and professionally, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside him.”
Dr. Evans’ data-driven, population health approach broadened the focus to prevention, community well-being, and sustained recovery in mental health. That vision resonates deeply with The Kennedy Forum’s 90-90-90 goals for 2033: 90% of people are screened for mental health and addiction, 90% of those who need care receive quality treatment, and 90% of those receiving treatment achieve supported recovery.
As emerging challenges and opportunities have taken shape that affect Americans’ well-being, Dr. Evans and the American Psychological Association have continued to look ahead. Under his leadership, APA has helped guide the conversation about how artificial intelligence should be developed, implemented, and used.
“I have worked hand in hand with Arthur through the CEO Alliance for Mental Health, including our efforts around AI integration, and I cannot overstate the value of his leadership,” said Rebecca O. Bagley, President and CEO of The Kennedy Forum, who co-chairs the Alliance’s work on AI integration. “He brings clarity to difficult questions and earns trust by listening closely and acting decisively. I look forward to continuing our work with the APA, which will be indelibly shaped by his contributions.”
As Dr. Evans prepares for this next chapter, The Kennedy Forum remains committed to partnership in the year ahead and beyond. We congratulate him with gratitude and look forward to extending his legacy alongside the institutions he has strengthened and the colleagues he has inspired.
