ATLANTA — Georgia State University Distinguished University Professor of Psychology, Director of the Violent Extremism Research Group (VERG) and Transcultural Conflict and Violence Initiative (TCV) faculty, Dr. John Horgan was presented Director’s Community Leadership Award (DCLA) for his dedicated work directing the Violent Extremism Research Group, which has not only impacted Atlanta, Georgia, but has had transformative impact worldwide. The award was presented on Friday, April 25, 2025 by Special Agent in Charge Paul Brown, of the Atlanta Field Office. This special award was formally created in 1990 as a way to honor individuals and organizations for their efforts in combating crime, terrorism, drugs, and violence in America.
“Dr. Horgan has not only been a trusted collaborator with the FBI, but his research has also been instrumental in deepening our understanding of extremist psychology, thereby enhancing the safety of our communities,” said Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “Congratulations, Dr. Horgan! Your dedication and pursuit of excellence have made a lasting impact, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with you.”
Dr. Horgan’s research examines terrorist psychology. He has over 120 publications, and his books includeThe Psychology of Terrorism (second edition, 2014),Divided We Stand: The Strategy and Psychology of Ireland’s Dissident Terrorists (2012); and Walking Away from Terrorism. Dr. Horgan has helped to shape the thinking of scientists, policymakers, and the public; helping them to better understand the pathways and processes by which people become attracted to, engaged with, and (importantly) disengaged from violent extremist ideologies and activities.
Horgan shared, “A huge honor and I’m deeply grateful for the Bureau’s recognition of our ongoing partnership to bring evidence-led approaches to preventing and countering terrorism. There’s nothing like seeing research inform, improve, and even challenge how counter-terrorism analysis and operations are done. Seeing that real-world impact has made me a far better researcher and teacher than I could ever have imagined. Thank you FBI and FBI Atlanta.”
Horgan’s recent book Terrorist Minds: The Psychology of Violent Extremism from Al-Qaeda to the Far Right is available.
The FBI recognizes the important role that community partnerships play in keeping our shared communities safe. These partnerships – as exemplified by the breadth of the work by the DCLA recipients – have led to a host of crime prevention programs that protect the most vulnerable in our communities, educate families and businesses about cyber threats, and work to reduce violent crime in our neighborhoods. Learn more about the Director’s Community Leadership Award program, the FBI’s general outreach efforts, and the Atlanta Field Office.
For Transcultural Conflict and Violence at GSU
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