Jack Hanning

What’s your favorite class? How has it expanded your knowledge?

I have had so many incredible art history and German classes, but I think the one class that has had the biggest impact on me was Historical Materials. It is not required for the art history major, but I chose to take it because it teaches how to become a researcher in many different ways. I now have an intimate knowledge of Watzek Library’s reference section and the Chicago citation style, but most importantly I learned to do an incredibly detailed and thorough research project. I plan on taking this knowledge with me into my future academic and professional life.

Who is your mentor on campus? Why do you consider this person your mentor?

Both Associate Professor of German Studies Therese Augst and Associate Professor of Art History Benjamin David. They are my academic advisors to my majors, but they are much more than that. They have helped me with my most difficult decisions in college, and have given me so many wonderful opportunities and support within the world of academia.

What made you want to come to Lewis & Clark?

I wanted to go to a small liberal arts college in a part of the country I really enjoyed with good German and art history programs. My mother also went to Lewis & Clark, so I knew of her positive experiences here.

How do you describe the liberal arts?

Challenging, mind-opening, and worldly.

Where do you find community on campus?

I was really lucky to get three amazing roommates my first year, and through those friends, I have created a wonderful community. I have also found that my classes really offer a beautiful camaraderie that builds the longer you stay together.

Which residence halls have you lived in? How would you describe the hall’s personality? What is/was the best thing about living on campus?

I lived in Forest my first year and Copeland my second. Forest had a very nice community; the halls are small so you get to know everyone pretty well. Copeland was a little different because all the halls are interconnected and therefore a little cramped and less personal. I didn’t feel as close to that hall as Forest, but when the dorm flooded twice the RAs and other hall mates came together in a very impressive and supportive way. The best thing about living on campus is the natural beauty that you see every day walking to class and the constant connection you have with your community.

If you have studied or will study overseas while at Lewis & Clark, how did you choose your program? What did your overseas study add to your L&C experience so far?

I chose the Munich program because it is a unique experience to be able to spend an entire year in a foreign country, living in the dorms and studying at the university there. Unfortunately, my program was cut short by COVID-19 and I was sent home about five months before I was supposed to return. I personally loved the independence that this program afforded me, and I wish every day that it could have continued. It opened my eyes to the fact that I am entirely capable of building a happy and full life in another country while learning a new language, which is a skill I will hopefully carry with me.

What’s your favorite thing about living in Portland?

There are so many independent retailers and restaurants in Portland. Growing up in Oklahoma meant that most of the places you go to shop or eat at are chains, which can be very soul crushing. I also find the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest to be unlike anywhere else in the United States, and that should be taken advantage of, despite the rain.

How did you decide on a major?

My decision to be a double major in German studies and art history was a very easy decision. The professors that I have for both showcase their love of the subject so well that it made me want to follow them and learn more.

Have you had the opportunity to do research with a professor? If so, please describe the project and the experience.

It may not count as research, but I designed and implemented an exhibition in Watzek Library with Therese Augst. It was an exhibition to commemorate the 100-year anniversary since the Bauhaus, an art institute in Germany, was opened. The project highlighted the ways in which the Bauhaus promoted collaboration and the resulting design and aesthetics have had a very long and wide influence in the world of art.