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Psychology Professor Earns McKendree University Grandy Faculty Award

Alumni Association Honors Dr. Guy Boysen at Commencement Ceremony

Lebanon, IL (05/11/2019) — A psychology professor who often includes his students as research collaborators has received McKendree University's 2019 William Norman Grandy Faculty Award, given by the Alumni Association. Dr. Guy Boysen accepted the surprise honor at undergraduate commencement exercises held on May 11 at the Lebanon, Ill., campus. It was the 38th presentation of the Grandy Award, which is given annually to recognize commitment to students and the ideals promoted by the university.

The tenured professor of psychology has taught at McKendree since 2012. He teaches courses including introduction to psychology, abnormal psychology, psychological testing and measurement, and research methods, and advises the Psi Chi psychology honor society. He sets high standards for his students, who say his classes are efficient, well planned, relevant, challenging and rewarding. Boysen received the United Methodist Church Exemplary Teaching Award at McKendree in 2017.

His two primary areas of professional expertise are the study of stigma toward persons with mental illness and the study of effective teaching and learning techniques. A prolific scholar, he has published three books and more than 50 articles in research journals, and given numerous presentations to professional audiences.

"A signature characteristic of Dr. Boysen's work is that he conducts much of his research collaboratively with students," noted Alumni Association President Ryan Furniss, who presented the Grandy Award. "He has co-authored several journal articles with students and co-presented or mentored students to give presentations at professional conferences."

He earned his bachelor's degree from St. John's University, and master's and doctoral degrees from Iowa State University.

The award is named for Dr. William Norman Grandy, who served from 1952 to 1968 as professor of philosophy and religion, and as dean of students, academic dean and interim president.

Media Attachments

Dr. Guy Boysen, (right) professor of psychology at McKendree University, accepts the 2019 Grandy Faculty Award from Ryan Furniss, president of the Alumni Association.

Dr. Boysen (right) is congratulated by Alumni Association President Ryan Furniss (left) and Dr. James Dennis, McKendree University president (center).

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