UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State is accepting nominations for the 2027 Shirley Hendrick Award. The award honors faculty, staff and administrators whose leadership has expanded opportunities for adult learners across the University.
Adult learners are a vital part of Penn State’s student body. Many of them balance school with full-time jobs, military service or caregiving. The Shirley Hendrick Award recognizes the people who make sure these students have the access, programs and support they need to finish what they started.
The Penn State Commission for Adult Learners sponsors the annual award. Nominations are being accepted through Nov. 20.
Eligible nominees are those who:
- Demonstrates leadership, support, and advocacy for adult learners throughout the University community.
- Champions strategic initiatives to integrate best practices for adult learners into the overall landscape of the University.
- Encourages innovative activities to foster and inspire a culture of collaboration while improving access to adult learner programs and services.
- Exemplifies the spirit of entrepreneurial and visionary leadership in creating new opportunities for adult learners to access Penn State programs.
The award is named for Shirley Hendrick, a former associate dean for continuing and distance education in the Smeal College of Business. She was also the first chair of the Commission for Adult Learners.
Penn State will announce the recipient in spring 2027. Nominations can be submitted on the Commission for Adult Learners website.