Jim Henderson

After 18 years on the FC staff, drama instructor Jim Hendedrson is resigning to become his own boss. His announced retirement was met with a great deal of sorrow by the staff and students. "I got this marvelous opportunity to buy a good shop where I wanted it," Henderson stated, "and I jumped at it."

Henderson will be operating a men's finer apparel shop in the exclusive Lumberyard Shopping Mall in Laguna Beach. He will also open an intimate coffee and pastry shop adjacent to his men's store.

No stranger to the retail business, Henderson has, over the years, contributed ideas and work to his wife's fashion business. Dolly Henderson, a successful dress designer, owns a ladies' apparel shop in the same mall.
After graduating from Whittier College in 1957, Henderson tried a career as a writer in Hollywood

"The competition in Hollywood is horrendous," said the drama
teacher. "I decided I'd be able to put my talents to better use as a teacher and I've never regretted that decision."

Henderson's first eight years at FC were spent in the English Department where he taught literature and composition. He later transferred to his present position in the Theater Department.

When asked what changes he has observed at FC during his 18 years here, Henderson said, "More people are coming to the community colleges today to explore various areas of education and training. I've seen a greater influx of older students and I think they contribute greatly to the system. In the Theater Department there is more freedom now in choice of materials to be produced. I see a greater tolerance of ideas and styles," he noted.

During his tenure at FC, Henderson has directed many shows. Although he enjoyed something about each of them, "The Real Inspector Hound" remains his favorite."Hound had everything: a wonderful cast, good mystery, comedy and an appreciative audience. That's a hard combination to beat."

Many of his former students are working in the entertainment business today, a fact that makes Henderson very proud. "I'd like to think I guided them in some constructive way," he said.

Commenting on Henderson's resignation, acting Theater Arts Department Chairman Todd Glen stated, "We will miss Jim's warm and personal charm and his professional expertise that we have come to depend so heavily upon. The entire department wishes him well in his new pursuits."

-Julie McAuley (1980, February 8). Henderson retires from Grease paint to Gucci. The Hornet, pp. A4