Psychology major Amy Kangas received the Hickey Award in recognition of her outstanding contributions to academic life. The award is given to a graduating senior in the College of Arts and Sciences.

 “Amy has the intelligence, insight, work ethic, and outstanding interpersonal skills that distinguish her as a bright and promising scholar and leader,” said Dean David Powers in granting the award.

During her senior year, Amy was selected to participate in the Psychology Honors Program. She conducted research in an area of her passion, student adjustment to college life. She worked diligently with the honors director and with her cohort, learned to use psychological instruments that are often reserved for graduate students, and obtained surprising findings. The research was presented at the Western Psychological Association Conference in San Francisco, a professional conference where papers are primarily presented by professors and graduate students. She also held a year-long internship at Childkaven, a recognized leader in therapeutic child care.

In addition to her academic achievements, Kangas was a member of the University choir, orientation advisor and coordinator for incoming student events, and consultant in the Writing Center.

After graduation, Kangas joined the Jesuit Volunteer Corps.

The Hickey Award is made by the department chairs and program directors of the College of Arts and Sciences. The award honors the memory of Dr. Richard P. Hickey, professor of English, a beloved and respected teacher at Seattle University from 1947 until his death in 1968.

The College of Arts and Sciences, the largest college in Seattle University, offers 33 undergraduate and 7 advanced degrees.