2026 Marie Wilson Howells’ Award

The Marie Wilson Howell Outstanding Graduating Senior Award is given to a graduating Department of Psychological Science major each spring. The criteria considered in selecting the recipient include a high overall GPA, a high Psychology GPA, exemplary professional conduct, involvement in research activities, and involvement with departmental organizations. The outstanding recipient this year is Olivia Davidson!

Mrs. Davidson is a first-generation college student who recently graduated with highest honors from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, earning a bachelor’s degree in Psychology. This fall, she will begin the Master of Social Work program at UA Little Rock, where she will work towards her goal of becoming a licensed mental health practitioner. She plans to focus her studies on the effects of social media, technology, and artificial intelligence on human behavior, as well as topics related to personality, psychopathology, and social systems.

Olivia has worked in the mental health field since 2019, gaining experience in both acute inpatient psychiatric care and private practice settings. In addition to providing essential insight, these roles deepened her commitment to social justice, advocacy, and expanding access to quality mental health care. She strives to ensure every individual feels seen, valued, and supported while receiving compassionate, high-quality care.

Outside of these noble pursuits in the field of mental health, Olivia enjoys spending time with her husband and toddler. As a family, they enjoy experiencing Arkansas’s natural beauty. A quote that reflects her personal philosophy is: “Love the world as your own self; then you can truly care for all things.” — Lao Tzu