In recognition of her instructional excellence, innovation, and deep commitment to transformative education, Janna A. Henning, Psy.D., has been awarded the Adler University 2025 Excellence in Teaching Award.
A dedicated member of the Adler community for nearly 20 years and full-time faculty since 2017, Dr. Henning has significantly shaped the University’s academic environment through her trauma-informed approach, student-centered mentorship, and rigorous, reflective pedagogy.
“As a professor, I’m in a unique position of being able to motivate, guide, and inspire my students to begin their own personal and professional journey, but what is even more impactful is that I receive the gift of seeing them apply their knowledge and skills to care for, serve, and assist other people,” said Dr. Henning. “I felt grateful and proud when I learned that I’d received this award, and even more so when I read the letters of recommendation written for me by a colleague, alumnus, and current student.”
The Excellence in Teaching Award celebrates faculty who not only make learning engaging and relevant but also profoundly impactful. In every respect, Dr. Henning embodies this ideal. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in constructivist values — integrating scholarly rigor with meaningful reflective practice. Through her courses, she consistently uplifts diverse voices, promotes social justice, and fosters experiential learning.
Dr. Henning has developed and taught a wide range of courses, including Advanced Trauma-Focused Interventions, Death, Dying, Bereavement & Loss, and Psychopathology. Her classes are known for their academic depth and emotional resonance, featuring immersive experiences such as visits to the Illinois Holocaust Museum and the National Museum of Mexican Art.
Beyond the classroom, Dr. Henning has served as chair for 66 dissertations and a reader for 52 others — earning widespread recognition from students and peers as a meticulous editor, tireless mentor, and passionate guide through the research process.
“Dr. Henning is widely sought by students to be on dissertation committees because of her excellent mentorship and nationally recognized expertise” said Jerry Westermeyer, Ph.D., professor of Clinical Psychology. “In particular, she took time with students to mentor them on their writing style to better prepare for dissertations as well as applications for jobs and clinical training positions.”
Students consistently praise her for being “creative, compassionate, and innovative,” offering feedback that is both “constructive and timely,” and delivering instruction that “translates decades of experience into digestible, passionate learning.” She is especially lauded for her cultural inclusivity, responsiveness to diverse needs, and commitment to student success.
Dr. Henning’s impact extends far beyond graduation. Alumni frequently credit her with shaping not only their academic paths, but also their personal and professional growth.
“She believed in me when I was unable to and held onto hope for me until I was ready to take it for myself,” reflected alum Sean Canetta, Psy.D. “What makes an excellent teacher is the love and passion they have for not only the material but for their students. And by my definition, Dr. Janna Henning is the best educator there is.”
“I’ve intentionally nurtured ongoing relationships with hundreds of my former students, and they inspire me every day,” Dr. Henning reflects. “To have played a role in my students’ professional and personal journeys as they help and serve others in nearly every US state and several countries has been the honor of my life.”
“We served together as faculty members at Adler University for over 15 years. I have witnessed Dr. Henning’s extraordinary writing, teaching, and professional style,” said Dr. Westermeyer. “I have appreciated the creativity, intelligence and wisdom of her work over many years.”
