The Clifton Strengths Prize recognizes and honors significant advances in the science and practice of strengths-based psychology, education, and leadership.

Over a 50-year career, Dr. Donald O. Clifton established a movement in psychology that focuses on talents and strengths. Dr. Clifton’s core philosophy was to have people focus on what was positive and right with themselves, and to build on their strengths to achieve their full potential.

The Clifton Strengths Prize honors Dr. Clifton’s life’s work and enduring influence on the field of psychology, and promotes further groundbreaking theory, research, and practice in this area.

2009 Clifton Strengths Laureate

Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi is the world’s leading scholar on flow, the state of complete absorption that is associated with creativity, doing what you do best, and well-being. Through landmark publications, he has defined what people look like when they are at their best.

2006 Clifton Strengths Laureate

Shelley E. Taylor’s groundbreaking research examines how strengths and social resources can protect health. Her 300+ publications have shaped our understanding of factors that buffer us from the effects of stress and illness.

About the Clifton Strengths Prize
The Clifton Strengths Prize is awarded every other year to individuals or teams whose exemplary work has advanced the science and/or practice of strengths-based psychology, education, and leadership.