Leury Peña Receives AAMFT Dissertation Award

Leury Peña smiling in doctoral regalia holds gold “DR” balloons in front of a pond with a fountain and green trees in the background.

Leury Peña ’24 (New England, PhD) has been honored with a Dissertation Award from the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy (AAMFT). Her dissertation, “Parentification and the Protective Factor of Familismo in the Latine Community,” offers insights into the complexities of parentification within Latine families and highlights how familismo can serve as a protective factor against its challenges. This important work contributes meaningfully to the field and reflects the depth of scholarship valued in the program. This recognition underscores both the scholarly contribution of her research and the dedication and perseverance that led to this milestone. Peña’s dedication and hard work reflect the impact Antioch students and graduates continue to make in advancing systemic and culturally responsive practices.