Thomas and Barbara Hendrickson

The Above and Beyond Award is presented annually to a friend or family member of a graduating student whose support went above and beyond the call of duty and made it possible for the graduate to achieve her or his goal. Here's the nomination letter for one 2007 recipient.

I completed my graduation requirements in October 2006, but were it not for the most incredible woman I know, I would have given up. Her name is Barbara Hendrickson, and we have been married for 32 years. She has truly gone above and beyond to help me reach my academic goals.

During my 26 months as a Walden student, Barbara did everything to help me complete the requirements and stay focused on my studies. She proofread all my papers and questioned every detail of my written work. While I was engrossed in my scholarly work, she paid the bills, balanced the checkbook, made calls regarding missing or late textbooks, and screened phone calls as I studied or read textbooks and journals. When the house needed to be quiet, she made sure it was. Likewise, when I needed a break—or needed to be told to go back to work—Barbara was there.

All the while, she was a constant source of encouragement. When my computer crashed, she made sure we had a new one in two days. When I misplaced a journal article—something I did frequently—Barbara would diligently search and find it.

She has always been supportive of my adventures, but my experience at Walden raised her support to a new level. She never gave up on me or the goal that I had set.

If I had the power and authority, I would have put her name next to mine on the diploma, because we both earned it.

About the Award
Read more about the Above and Beyond Award and other recipients.

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