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 2023-2024 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. Please note that completed applications are due by midnight on Friday, January 26.
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. Please note that nominations must be received by midnight on Friday, December 8.
2023 Recipient of the Robert Hendersen Leadership Award
Zoe Schultz
How did you become interested in psychology?
I have always been fascinated by why people behave the way that they do and believe that learning more about psychological principles has helped me to better understand others. As a double major in Psychology and Criminal Justice, I always thought I would end up working in federal law enforcement. However, being involved in research projects and presenting on trauma and resilience multiple times at the GVSU Teach-In pushed me to change my career projection and focus more on the psychology side of my degree. Having those experiences just really solidified that I wanted to continue adding to our collective psychological knowledge and pursue a career in academia.
How have your leadership opportunities enriched your experience as a student?
My leadership activities have enriched my experience as a student because they have brought me closer to the Grand Valley community as a whole. Being the President of Psi Chi has led me to connect with more students and forge personal connections with faculty mentors. These positions have helped me understand that part of being a good leader is creating an environment in which you have access to the resources and support you need to be successful. I have felt so incredibly at home in the psychology department here and I do believe that feeling has stemmed from the leadership positions I have held within the department.
What are you planning to do after graduation?
After graduation, I will be enrolled at Saint Louis University in their Clinical Psychology PhD program. I will continue to develop my research and clinical skills while working under the supervision of Dr. Madeline Stenersen. Following the completion of my degree, I hope to become a professor.