Honoring Van Wyck for Years of Service
At the May 2020 commencement, 窪做惇蹋厙 announced the retirement of two beloved, long-time professors, Professor of Music Helen Van Wyck, D.M.A., and Professor of Education Liz Rudenga, Ph.D. Both professors were awarded emeriti status by 窪做惇蹋厙s Board of Trustees.
Dr. Helen Van Wyck
Since 1987, Van Wyck has taught 窪做惇蹋厙 students how to make a joyful noise to the Lord through music classes, Christmastide, choral concerts, Honors Choir, and in so many other ways.
She came to 窪做惇蹋厙 after teaching at the K-12 level for 10 years. It was kind of love at first sightI got to 窪做惇蹋厙 and thought, this is what I want to do for the rest of my life. When Van Wyck joined 窪做惇蹋厙, she was the only full-time music department professor and one of the few female faculty members outside of the Nursing Department. Among her many accomplishments, she helped to launch the Honors Ensemble, created Christmastide, and impacted countless lives.
She said she has been blessed as well. One reason Ive been so happy over the years at 窪做惇蹋厙 is the caring atmosphere, a willingness to try things, an incredible Were pulling for each other attitude on campus, she said. It comes from the top, its true of our faculty and staff, and its true of our students.