A digital illustration portraying the Psychiatry journal as a source of knowledge and community

Navigating Transitions: Alice Fladung's Legacy and the Future of Psychiatry

Rhea Morgan in Health & Wellness December 2025 • 4 min read.

"A Tribute to Alice Fladung's Impact and the Journal's Continued Commitment to Excellence"

The world of academic publishing often operates behind the scenes, driven by the tireless efforts of individuals whose commitment ensures the smooth flow of knowledge and insight. In the realm of Psychiatry, one such figure has stood out for over a decade: Alice Fladung. Her recent retirement as Managing Editor marks the end of an era, a moment to reflect on her profound contributions and the impact she has had on the journal, its authors, and its readers.

This transition is not merely a change in personnel; it's a pivotal moment for the Psychiatry journal. It's an opportunity to honor the dedication of someone who has shaped the journal’s identity and to welcome new leadership. The journal, deeply rooted in the values of historical integrity and commitment to its mission, will continue to serve scientists, clinicians, patients and communities, providing them with a platform for critical research and discourse.

As we turn the page to a new chapter, it's important to understand the context of this shift and the profound impact Alice Fladung had on the journal's success. This article offers a tribute to her legacy, a look at the qualities that made her so successful, and what the future holds for Psychiatry.

The Pillars of Excellence: Alice Fladung's Contributions

A digital illustration portraying the Psychiatry journal as a source of knowledge and community

Alice Fladung’s tenure as Managing Editor was characterized by an unwavering commitment to the journal's mission. She understood that a journal's impact extends far beyond the printed page. It resides in the dedication of those who facilitate the publication process and who are essential for high-quality research. She consistently ensured that authors, reviewers, and editors were organized, supported, and on schedule, playing a critical role in the publication process and setting a high bar for others to follow.

Her work was about more than just managing a publication; it was about upholding the values of the field and fostering a community of shared learning. It was her vision and initiative that made the journal thrive, keeping the Psychiatry “humming” through the years. Her legacy is one of efficiency and a steadfast commitment to serving the needs of everyone involved in the process.

Organizational Mastery: Ensuring the journal ran efficiently.
Community Building: Fostering a supportive environment for authors and editors.
Commitment to Quality: Upholding the highest standards of academic rigor.

With Mary Lee Dichtel stepping into the role of Managing Editor, the journal will continue to thrive. This transition promises to be smooth, with Alice’s continued guidance and support, setting the stage for an evolution.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Psychiatry and its Journal

As Alice Fladung transitions into retirement, Psychiatry extends its gratitude for her exceptional service and wisdom. The journal will remain a beacon of reliable information, research, and insights in the field of mental health. With the new Managing Editor and the continuous commitment to values, the journal continues its mission to help scientists, clinicians, patients and the wider community to achieve better understanding and advancements in mental health. The legacy of Alice Fladung inspires the journal to keep excelling and remain the leading voice in the field.

About this Article -

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Everything You Need To Know

What were Alice Fladung's primary contributions during her time as Managing Editor for Psychiatry?

Alice Fladung's tenure as Managing Editor was characterized by her organizational mastery, ensuring Psychiatry ran efficiently. She was also pivotal in community building, fostering a supportive environment for authors and editors, and in her commitment to quality, upholding the highest standards of academic rigor. She was essential in ensuring authors, reviewers, and editors were organized, supported, and on schedule.

How does Psychiatry plan to maintain its standards and continue its mission following Alice Fladung's retirement?

With Mary Lee Dichtel stepping into the role of Managing Editor and with Alice Fladung's continued guidance and support, Psychiatry is set for a smooth transition and continued excellence. The journal will continue to focus on providing reliable information, research, and insights in the field of mental health, supporting scientists, clinicians, patients, and the wider community.

In what ways did Alice Fladung foster a sense of community within Psychiatry?

Alice Fladung fostered a supportive environment for authors, reviewers, and editors involved with Psychiatry, viewing her role as more than just managing a publication but upholding the values of the field and fostering a community of shared learning. She ensured that all parties were organized, supported, and on schedule, which played a critical role in the publication process.

What is the significance of Alice Fladung's transition for the Psychiatry journal?

Alice Fladung's transition marks a pivotal moment for Psychiatry. It represents an opportunity to honor her dedication and lasting impact on the journal's identity. It also opens a new chapter with Mary Lee Dichtel at the helm, continuing the journal's mission of providing a platform for critical research and discourse, rooted in historical integrity and commitment to serving scientists, clinicians, patients and communities.

Beyond administrative duties, what broader impact did Alice Fladung have on the field through her role at Psychiatry?

Alice Fladung's work extended beyond mere administrative duties; she played a crucial role in upholding the values of the field and fostering a community of shared learning within Psychiatry. Her efficiency and steadfast commitment to serving the needs of everyone involved in the publication process ensured the journal thrived, contributing significantly to advancements in mental health understanding. She ensured the journal was ‘humming’ through the years. Her vision and initiative made the journal thrive.