thank you for joining us for another interview in celebration of Student House’s 70th Anniversary which we are celebrating this year. We are gathering marvellous memories and fascinating facts about Student House and reminiscing with former residents, the team and Victoria League members associated with Student House.
Today my guest is Doreen Henry, our very own General Manager of The Victoria League for Commonwealth Friendship as well as Student House for the last 14 years since May 2010. Hello Doreen and thanks for speaking to me. Let me tell you a little bit about her.
Doreen was born and brought up in her early years in East Kilbride, Scotland along with her 2 brothers. Her dad was a ship-builder and when the Clyde shipyards closed, the family relocated to Harlow in Essex when she was 10. She learned how to switch accents very well for many years – so it was Scottish at home and English out after the move.
Before working with the Victoria League, Doreen held various positions including Training Services Manager for the Federation of Plastering and Drywall Contractors, World Centre Manager for the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts for 7 years and Senior Community Play Officer for Stevenage Borough Council for 18 years.
Doreen has travelled extensively although this has curtailed a bit due to Darcey, our favourite Student House dog. Her most recent trips included Europe, Ecuador, Peru, Costa Rica, Cuba, Australia and the States.
And speaking of Darcey, Doreen volunteers for Dogs as Therapy with her including visits to hospital wards. She has also represented Dogs as Therapy at Crufts for the last two years, helping them publicise the charity to the ‘dog community’ with Darcey of course! Doreen is awaiting training to become a dog assessor!
Doreen was a keen cyclist – completing the London 46 bike ride, four times plus many other bike events. She also was a ride leader for a number of years for British Cycling including for their women only rides – the Breeze scheme.
Enjoy this interview with Doreen. Great memories and fascinating facts about Student House. Thank you Doreen!