School of Graduate Studies Medal of Merit, Master of Education Winner Henna Hans

For Henna Hans (MEd '26), the most rewarding part of graduate studies wasn't just the research she conducted — it was the community she found along the way. Drawn to the University of Lethbridge's Counselling Psychology program for its collaborative environment and strong mentorship opportunities, Hans developed the skills, relationships and confidence that helped shape her future career.

Hans was recognized for her exceptional work as a graduate student with the School of Graduate Studies Medal of Merit as she crossed the stage at Spring 2026 Convocation.

Meet Henna.
Medal won: School of Graduate Studies Medal of Merit, Master of Education
Program: Master of Education (Counselling Psychology)

Describe your ULethbridge experience in three words.

Collaborative. Inspiring. Rewarding.

Why did you choose ULethbridge for your graduate studies?

I chose ULethbridge because of its strong Counselling Psychology program, its emphasis on meaningful research, and the opportunity to learn from supportive faculty mentors. I was particularly drawn to the close-knit learning environment, where I felt I would be able to build strong relationships with both professors and peers. Throughout my graduate studies, that sense of community, mentorship, and collaboration became one of the most rewarding parts of my experience and helped shape both my academic and professional growth.

What drew you to your program?

I was drawn to counselling psychology because of my passion for mental health and my desire to support individuals and communities in meaningful ways. Throughout my academic and community experiences, I became increasingly interested in understanding how culture, relationships, and social systems shape people's well-being. Counselling psychology offered the opportunity to combine that interest with direct clinical work and research, allowing me to contribute to both individual healing and broader conversations about mental health and social change.

What did your research encompass?

My research focused on exploring and understanding the cultural gender role beliefs that may perpetuate cycles of domestic violence within South Asian immigrant communities in Canada. Particularly, I was interested in highlighting and empowering the perspectives of South Asian women with lived experiences of domestic violence. Through this research, I hope to expand understanding and increase awareness about this issue within South Asian communities by informing culturally sensitive and relevant mental health resources and social supports.

Did you receive any scholarships, awards or bursaries during your studies? How did having financial support impact your education?

During my studies, I was honoured to receive the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council Canada Graduate Scholarship-Master’s (SSHRC CGS-M), along with additional bursaries. This support had a meaningful impact on my educational experience, as it allowed me to dedicate more time and energy to my studies and thesis research.

Beyond the financial support, receiving these awards was incredibly encouraging. It reinforced the value of my research and gave me the confidence to continue pursuing work that is meaningful to me.

What does this academic recognition mean to you?

Receiving the School of Graduate Studies Medal of Merit is an incredible honour and a meaningful recognition of the work, dedication, and growth that went into my graduate studies. What makes this award especially significant to me is that it recognizes research on a topic I care deeply about—understanding the experiences of South Asian immigrant women affected by domestic violence and helping bring greater awareness to their stories.

This recognition is also a reflection of the support I received throughout my journey. I am incredibly grateful to my supervisor, committee members, peers, and the participants who trusted me with their experiences. Receiving this award is both humbling and motivating, and it reinforces the importance of pursuing research that is meaningful, community-focused, and grounded in lived experience.

What is the most important lesson you learned during your time at ULethbridge?

One of the most important lessons I learned during my time at ULethbridge is the value of community. As a graduate student, I had the privilege of learning alongside peers who shared my passion for mental health, supported my research, and continually challenged me to think in new ways. Their encouragement, insight, and friendship played a significant role in shaping my graduate experience and helping me grow both personally and professionally. Looking back, I am most grateful for the relationships I built and the positive learning environment we created together.

What are your plans for the future?

As I graduate, I plan to continue working as a psychologist in community-based settings, with a particular focus on organizations and clinics that provide accessible, inclusive mental health services to diverse and immigrant communities. I look forward to applying the skills and knowledge I gained during my graduate training to support individuals and families in meaningful ways.

I am also passionate about research and hope to pursue doctoral training in the future, allowing me to continue exploring topics that promote culturally responsive and equitable mental health care.

What advice would you give to those who are about to begin their journey at ULethbridge? What would you tell your first-year self?

To those about to begin their journey at ULethbridge, my advice is to fully embrace the experience. Take the time to connect with and learn from your peers. The relationships you build and the perspectives you gain from one another can be some of the most valuable parts of your education. I would also encourage you to lean into the support and wealth of knowledge that your professors offer. They are invested in your success and can be incredible mentors throughout your academic journey.

If I could speak to my first-year self, I would remind myself to trust the process, be open to new opportunities, and not be afraid to ask for help when needed. Most importantly, don't forget to enjoy the experience!