One L&C Champion - John Hancock

The campus community at Lewis & Clark is comprised of talented students, staff, and faculty working together to build a learning environment that fosters personal growth and development. Nobody understands these principles better than John Hancock, Associate Dean of Students for Health and Wellness and Chief Psychologist. John was a first generation college student, and described attending college as “the first step in the opening and freeing of my mind.” John is motivated by the opportunity to help all students be successful at L&C, and works to ensure that their education will be transformative. John’s impact on our students is just one of the many reasons we have selected John Hancock as an L&C Champion for the month of June.

John’s colleagues nominated him as a Champion not only for his sustained commitment to the health and safety of the L&C community, but also for the way in which he goes about it. He is kind, calm and reserved and always puts the health and safety of students first. He prioritizes living simply, in peace with our planet; and doing his part to heal the wounds of historical injustice. One co-worker pointed out that John is “on countless committees to help discuss and inform policies and practice, he maintains all the information needed to test students, track results, and coordinate communications.” John stepped up immediately last year as the reality and impacts of COVID became clear and he has not rested since.

Please read John’s words below to learn more about him and why he is a Champion:

“I am so proud of the way that my entire staff pivoted this last year. We developed new systems for providing medical and psychological healthcare to students; we quickly acquired and adopted new testing technology, and made surveillance testing a part of our culture; and we provided reassurance, transparency and public health guidance to the community. Plus my staff developed strategic plans for diversity, equity and inclusion that will guide our departments going forward.

My favorite way to unwind and relax is time with family. I am blessed to have two great “kids”– one in grad school and one a rising junior in college–that I love to spend time with. I also have been married for 33 years to a wonderfully supportive spouse. When I’m not with family, I love to exercise and do yoga. Throw in a good movie or a Cubs game from time to time, and I’m set!”

We are truly grateful for John, and the way that he has helped the people of Lewis & Clark adjust and get through so many challenges this past year. We recognize him also for his many years of dedication to our community.