Psychology Professor Earns McKendree University Grandy Faculty Award
Alumni Association Honors Dr. Guy Boysen at Commencement Ceremony
(LEBANON, Ill., May 11, 2019) — A psychology professor who often includes his students
as research collaborators 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.
Dr. Guy Boysen, (right) professor of psychology at McKendree University, accepts the 2019 Grandy Faculty Award from Ryan Furniss, president of the Alumni Association.
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