Alumna Dedicated to Improving Mental Health for Youth
Saint Louis University alumna Shelli Avenevoli, Ph.D., (A&S ’93) built a career defined by purpose, perseverance and public service. A nationally recognized leader in youth mental health, she said her journey began with a simple but powerful foundation: a family rooted in selflessness and a university that nurtured her intellect and values.
Avenevoli said she found an environment at SLU that challenged her to think critically and act compassionately. As a psychology major, she explored the intersection of science and service, learning to meet people where they are — a philosophy she said shaped her life’s work.
“SLU taught me scientific inquiry and public health approaches that embrace quality care for all,” she said. “Scientific research fuels tomorrow’s breakthroughs and informs everyday decisions that improve lives and empower us to serve others.”
A Pioneering Career
Avenevoli’s dedication to improving children’s mental health led her to a pioneering career at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), where she began in the Division of Intramural Research Program in 2001, conducting research on anxiety, depression and substance use in adolescents. Four years later, she transitioned to the NIMH extramural research program, leading scientific initiatives on youth mental health. In 2017, she made history by becoming the first woman to serve as deputy director of NIMH. By June 2024, she had achieved another milestone, serving as the Institute’s inaugural female acting director until April 2025.
“Dr. Avenevoli is a dedicated public servant, and her scientific contributions have shaped our approach to addressing mental-health disorders in the United States,” said Leslie McClure, Ph.D., dean of the Saint Louis University College for Public Health and Social Justice. “The time she spent at the National Institute of Mental Health will leave a lasting impact on public health in our country.”
Throughout her 24-year tenure, Avenevoli led and conducted transformative research on youth social, emotional and neuro-development, mental illness, precision medicine, suicide prevention and the impact of social media and other influences on mental health. She directed long-term studies and spearheaded cross-agency initiatives, including collaborations with the White House, to elevate national awareness, improve treatments for mental health and reduce the suicide rate.
“Dr. Avenevoli has made a substantive and lasting impact on our understanding of adolescent mental health and well-being,” said Jeremiah Weinstock, Ph.D., chair of SLU's Department of Psychology. “She was instrumental in supporting the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study — the largest long-term study of brain development and child health in the United States. Researchers in our department are currently using that data to ask important questions about ADHD and, separately, about the relationship between adolescent girls’ development and depression and anxiety. Dr. Avenevoli’s published research and scientific leadership at the national level have pushed our science to new heights.”
The Power of Community
Avenevoli credits her formative years at SLU for expanding her academic horizons and fostering a deep sense of belonging and inclusion.
“My education at SLU wasn’t just scholastic — it was also about the people,” she said. “The professors, advisors and priests encouraged, challenged and provided counsel for us. Fellow peers offered emotional, social and academic support, and later became lifelong friends. We formed a community that enabled success.”
My education at SLU wasn’t just scholastic — it was also about the people."
Shelli Avenevoli, Ph.D., (A&S ’93)
After graduating with her bachelor’s degree from SLU in 1993, Avenevoli earned her doctorate in developmental psychology from Temple University in 1998 and completed postdoctoral work in psychiatric epidemiology at Yale School of Medicine.
“I pursued a career in science to make a difference on a large scale, especially for youth,” she said. “I’m proud that my husband and two children are also committed to helping others through their work and studies. I remain hopeful that they, in their own way, will channel their experiences, abilities and wisdom to continue to foster a healthier and more compassionate world.”
It’s the same hope she also holds for her fellow Billikens.
For alumni and students eager to discover their personal purpose, Avenevoli shares insights drawn from lessons learned through her family, her experiences and her education at SLU: “Always be a critical thinker, be the best you, and take care of others. Lift people up and support them. Take advantage of your education to understand the world and the needs of others you are less familiar with, and act on them positively. Try to understand the reasons others may hold different perspectives, as it often leads to insightful revelations. Live your values every day. Challenge yourself to grow. Take care of yourself.”
Do you know a SLU alum who deserves a spotlight? Let us know! Email alumni@slu.edu.