CPDD Establishes James L. Sorensen, PhD Memorial Fund
Brentwood, TN – January 8, 2024 – The College on Problems of Drug Dependence (CPDD) is proud to announce the establishment of the James L. Sorensen, Ph.D. Memorial Fund as a tribute to the late Dr. James L. Sorensen, a visionary leader, distinguished scholar, beloved mentor, and long-time CPDD member.
"Dr. James L. Sorensen's legacy is immeasurable, and we are honored to create the James L. Sorensen, Ph.D. Memorial Fund to commemorate his remarkable contributions to the field of substance use disorder research. This fund will serve as a lasting tribute to his impact on the field of addiction and a major contribution to our understanding of treatment for individuals with HIV/AIDS and substance use disorders," said William Stoops, Ph.D., CPDD Treasurer.
In recent years, his research focused on linking research and practice in the addictions and studying ethical issues faced by staff when providing treatment for substance use disorders. He mentored many trainees over the past 45 years, who can attest to his generous and influential mentorship. Notably, Dr. Sorensen made significant efforts to remove barriers facing people from racial/ethnic minoritized groups and women in clinical and health-services research and to encourage the development of researchers from underrepresented populations. Dr. Sorensen was regarded fondly by those who worked with him, especially the San Francisco Bay area addiction treatment community.
The James L. Sorensen, Ph.D. Memorial Fund honors Dr. James Sorensen’s dedication and contributions to the field. As part of the memorial fund, the James L. Sorensen Distinguished Treatment and Service Research Mentor Award will be established to honor senior-level researchers with 20+ years of experience who have engaged in research serving patients or in research related to the distribution and utilization of treatment services across population groups. Dr. Sorensen’s mentorship extended to numerous individuals, each making significant contributions to the advancement of treatment, services, and research of substance use and addictive disorders. The fund will provide an enduring source of support for those who share Dr. Sorensen's dedication to the field.
CPDD invites friends, colleagues, and admirers of Dr. James L. Sorensen to contribute to the memorial fund. Donations can bemade online through our official website, www.cpdd.org, or by contacting Jesse Howard at info@cpdd.org. Non-members can donate to the fund by mailing a check to CPDD, 5034A Thoroughbred Lane, Brentwood, TN 37027. All contributions, regardless of size, are appreciated and will contribute to preserving Dr. Sorensen's legacy.
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About CPDD
The College on Problems of Drug Dependence (CPDD) is the oldest and largest organization in the US dedicated to advancing a scientific approach to substance use and addictive disorders. CPDD actively promotes basic scientific research in all aspects of substance abuse and facilitate the sharing of knowledge and new discoveries among scientists of diverse backgrounds, both nationally and internationally.