Louise Hankenson

Friends of Lewis & Clark Remembered

Louise Hankenson, a former staff member, died January 12, 2020, at age 94. A native Portlander, she married James “Hank” Hankenson, her childhood sweetheart, in 1949. The couple settled in Southwest Portland to raise their four children.

After many years as a stay-at-home parent, Hankenson accepted a position at Lewis & Clark, starting in the registrar’s office and later serving as the director of Templeton Center and coordinator of campus conferences. She loved and took pride in working at Lewis & Clark—the daily interaction with students and faculty brought her great joy and led to many lifelong friendships.

Survivors include her children, Dr. Lori Hankenson, Lesli Walsh, James Hankenson, and Cari Waymire; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.