Northern Michigan University will hold a dedication ceremony for the Bobbie Marie Henderson ’75 Classroom from 5:30-7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 26, at Olson Library in the Edgar L. Harden Learning Resources Center. The naming will honor Roberta Henderson of Marquette, an NMU graduate (’75 MA) who served as professor of library science and reference librarian.

NMU honored Henderson with a Distinguished Faculty Award in 1988 for her excellence in teaching, scholarship and service. The award citation read, “Combining tact and graciousness with skill, patience and perseverance, Professor Henderson has the unique ability to turn problems into learning experiences.”

Henderson introduced new services to support students, faculty and staff. They included a term paper counseling program and special counseling services for graduate and international students, as well as students with disabilities. Henderson also expanded library instruction to area high school students.

Friends, colleagues and former students led the naming initiative. Gifts totaling $41,000 will be used to support programming related to information literacy and library renovations that benefit the campus and broader community. As Olson Library plans renovations to enhance functionality, comfort and technology, the classroom will continue to anchor library instruction.

Henderson said that her approach to teaching and community was shaped by her experiences teaching abroad. Prior to joining the NMU faculty, she taught in Japan, Germany, Turkey and Uganda. She has been active in the Marquette Area Sister Cities Partnership, Marquette Beautification and Restoration Committee, book clubs and the Northern Center for Lifelong Learning.