Honoring Van Wyck for Years of Service
At the May 2020 commencement, 91精选 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 91精选鈥檚 Board of Trustees.
Dr. Helen Van Wyck
Since 1987, Van Wyck has taught 91精选 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 91精选 after teaching at the K-12 level for 10 years. 鈥淚t was kind of love at first sight鈥擨 got to 91精选 and thought, this is what I want to do for the rest of my life.鈥� When Van Wyck joined 91精选, 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. 鈥淥ne reason I鈥檝e been so happy over the years at 91精选 is the caring atmosphere, a willingness to try things, an incredible 鈥榃e鈥檙e pulling for each other鈥� attitude on campus,鈥� she said. 鈥淚t comes from the top, it鈥檚 true of our faculty and staff, and it鈥檚 true of our students.鈥�