One L&C Champion - Henry van Vuuren

While the events industry took a big hit over the course of the pandemic, Henry van Vuuren stayed positive and got to work. As the Events A/V Coordinator, Henry helped students and staff adjust to the new normal. Shifting from mostly in-person gatherings towards entirely remote events changed operations drastically, and Henry has been essential in implementing these changes. For his dedication to the people of Lewis & Clark, and his fantastic work as the Events A/V Coordinator, Henry was nominated and selected as an L&C Champion!

Henry’s optimism and positivity are a breath of fresh air. While some of us probably begrudge the strictly virtual relationships we’ve had to adopt recently, Henry saw the situation a bit differently. Although he managed significantly more events due to COVID, it was immediately apparent that these virtual events increased accessibility. He pointed out that it can be a lot easier getting on a call than coming to campus for someone without access to a car, or limited finances for parking.

With the workload increased for him and his co-workers, Henry knew that the possibility of burnout was very real. He was driven by the opportunity to be there for our students during this time and to make these events accessible for more people. Having a safe space where you feel like what you say is valued, even online, helps people engage and feel comfortable being themselves. Seeing staff, faculty and students grow closer during events this past year has helped him realize that we’re capable of overcoming and getting through these things together. Henry is really proud of the work he and the team have done.

Henry has successfully navigated these changes while being professional, courteous, and on top of his technical game. For future events at Lewis & Clark, Henry wants to ensure everyone knows that he and the team are dedicated to creating spaces where your thoughts and ideas can grow and exist. He’d rather put extra hours towards getting an event the way you want it than just doing the same old routine. We appreciate Henry, his dedication to his peers, and the way he improves our campus just by being himself. Henry is truly a Champion!