KEARNEY – The Nebraska School Librarians Association honored University of Nebraska at Kearney faculty member Judy Henning with its Distinguished Service Award, recognizing decades of leadership and service to school libraries and K-12 students.
The award was presented Monday at the Nebraska Department of Education in Lincoln.
Henning is an associate professor of teacher education and coordinator of UNK’s school librarian program.
Her career includes service as media director and librarian at Kearney High School and extensive leadership with the Nebraska Educational Media Association and NSLA. She has helped guide curriculum and school improvement efforts, led statewide professional learning on new standards for school librarians and mentored librarians across Nebraska and beyond.
At UNK, Henning teaches and advises students in the school librarian program, preparing future school librarians with a strong foundation in reading, information literacy, technology integration and inquiry-based learning. She is an active scholar with recent refereed publications, a co-authored library science textbook and presentations at regional, national and international conferences.
“This award is a fitting tribute to a career defined by service, innovation and leadership,” said UNK College of Education Dean Mark Reid. “Judy’s contributions have strengthened school libraries, advanced the profession and enriched the educational experiences of students and teachers for decades.”
Henning’s work has earned international recognition, including the L. Anne Clyde Memorial Research Award for research on high school students’ reading habits. She also serves on the Nebraska Library Commission, where she was appointed by Gov. Jim Pillen.
In addition to her work in Nebraska, Henning has served in leadership roles with the American Association of School Librarians and International Association of School Librarianship, extending her influence on the profession nationally and internationally.
“Her influence can be seen in the students, educators and librarians she has impacted throughout her career,” said Sherry Crow, professor emeritus at UNK.
“Judy has had a dynamic influence on K-12 students and teachers during her time as a school librarian, especially in the areas of reading, information literacy and technology,” Crow added. “What has made her truly special during her 50 years in the library profession has been her forward-thinking, collaborative and inspiring leadership style.”