USA (Commonwealth Union)_ Carnegie Mellon University has announced that Meena Sundrum, a graduating senior majoring in psychology, has been awarded the 2025 Gretchen Goldsmith Lankford Award for Excellence in Psychology and Education. The prestigious recognition is presented annually by the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences to a student who exemplifies outstanding academic achievement and a strong dedication to advancing the field of education. Sundrum, originally from India, has made a lasting impression through her academic performance, research initiatives, and practical engagement with early childhood education. Among a competitive field of nominees, her emphasis on child development and emotional intelligence distinguished her as this year’s recipient.
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A defining moment in Sundrum’s academic journey came during a self-directed internship at Carnegie Mellon’s Children’s School. While working with the Preschool 4 class, she developed a creative tool known as the “feelings thermometer.” The initiative was aimed at helping young children better understand and articulate their emotions. “It was such a simple idea, but the response from the children was powerful,” Sundrum shared in an interview with the university. “Helping them articulate their emotions gave me a deeper understanding of how critical emotional literacy is at that age.”
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The success of the feelings thermometer not only reflected her academic understanding but also underscored her ability to bridge psychological theory with practical classroom strategies. It became central to her educational philosophy, one that prioritizes empowering children through accessible emotional learning tools. Furthermore, the Lankford Award, named in honor of long-time educator Gretchen Goldsmith Lankford, is among the most esteemed accolades awarded by the college. It celebrates students who demonstrate both intellectual excellence and a meaningful commitment to teaching, mentorship, and psychological support for future generations.
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Throughout her time at Carnegie Mellon, Sundrum pursued advanced studies in developmental psychology, educational theory, and research methods. Faculty members praised her for her empathetic approach and natural leadership qualities. “She embodies the kind of educator and psychologist who leads with both intellect and heart,” a faculty member noted, according to university communications. As she looks to the future, Sundrum plans to continue her academic journey with graduate studies in child psychology and education. Her goal is to design new tools and curricula that enhance emotional learning for young children, reinforcing the growing importance of social-emotional learning (SEL) in educational settings. “Being part of a community that values innovation and compassion gave me the freedom to explore what matters to me,” Sundrum reflected. “This award is an incredible honor, but it’s also a responsibility I take seriously.”
In addition to receiving a $2,500 monetary prize, Sundrum was presented with a discipline-specific book inscribed with her name and the award year. The Head of the Department of Psychology, Susanne Ferber, commended Sundrum, stating, “Not only does Meena embody the criteria of the award, she will also bring credit to the program.” Following graduation, Sundrum plans to enter a teaching role, where she aims to further explore the educational landscape and improve communication strategies with young learners. Her work is viewed as a promising step forward in aligning emotional development with traditional educational goals.
