The Robert Hendersen Leadership Award
Named after the Psychology Department's longest-serving and most transformative Chair, the Robert Hendersen Leadership Award recognizes students who demonstrate effective leadership and commitment to others in their campus, community, or work environments, and whose engagement in these activities has drawn upon or enriched their knowledge of psychology.
Each academic year, a single student will receive this award following careful consideration of all candidates. The winner will be formally recognized by the Psychology Department at an event during the winter semester.
In order to be eligible for the Robert Hendersen Leadership Award, candidates must (a) have declared a major in psychology or behavioral neuroscience, (b) be of junior or senior standing, (c) have a GPA of 3.5 or above, and (d) be currently enrolled at Grand Valley State University.
Applications for the 2025-2026 Academic Year
If you are a student who meets the above eligibility criteria and you would like to apply for this award, click or tap the following link for instructions and additional information.
If you know a student who you think would be a good candidate for this award and you would like to nominate them, click or tap the following link for instructions and additional information.
2026 Recipient of the Robert Hendersen Leadership Award
Madelyn Howe
How did you become interested in psychology?
I’ve known from a young age that I wanted to pursue psychology because I’ve always been very in tune with others’ emotions, but often wished someone better understood my own. That personal experience sparked my curiosity about how people think, feel, and connect. My passion has only grown through my time at GVSU, especially through study abroad in Northern Ireland, Psych Friends, Psi Chi, and the support and mentorship of the psychology faculty, all of which deepened my interest in the field.
How have your leadership opportunities enriched your experience as a student?
My leadership roles, especially as President of Psi Chi and a peer mentor, have pushed me outside of my comfort zone and gave me opportunities to grow in ways I didn’t expect. Stepping into leadership was sometimes uncomfortable at first, but it challenged me to build confidence, trust my voice, and become more adaptable in different situations. Through planning events, mentoring students, and collaborating closely with faculty, I developed stronger communication, organization, and problem-solving skills. These experiences made my time at GVSU feel more purposeful and connected, as I was not only growing myself but also helping support and uplift others.
What are you planning to do after graduation?
After graduation, I plan to pursue a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, with a focus on working with children and families. I’m really excited to continue learning and growing in a field that feels so meaningful to me. In the meantime, I hope to gain hands-on experience in a counseling-related role so I can keep building my skills and confidence. My long-term goal is to become a licensed counselor and create a space where people feel understood, supported, and genuinely cared for.