.084 Eugene Lovendusky

It’s damn near impossible to even think of Eugene without smiling. We met when I started working at The Center and it didn’t take more than a few hours for us to realize that sitting next to each other (w/ Chris, of course) would be Tr0uBL3. Eugene has one of the most contagious laughs in history, and that combined with his wonderful sense of humor and deeply friendly demeanor makes him such a fabulous person and friend to be around. He is such a sweetheart, never failing to check in on a bad day, affirm your success and achievements on a good day, and be a positive source of energy on all of the others.

As a colleague, Eugene impressed me daily with his ability to enthusiastically dive into any project and task, only then to report on its success with the same amount of energy and clarity. He is incredibly diligent and driven, always looking for a better and more efficient way to do things, and always with the best interest for The Center and LGBT community in mind. As a human being, Eugene is kind, empathetic and truly compassionate. He pays acute attention to the names and details of everyone in his life, adding to his overall essence of being so caring and loving to all. He has an encyclopedic memory of all-things Broadway and the number of times he’s made me feel welcome and happy is second only to the number of records in his collection at home. Eugene just generally always makes things better, and for that I’m so grateful.

Eugene, thank you for being such a unique character and source of joy in my life. Thank you for your wonderful singing voice, both on stage and under your breath in the office. Thank you for always knowing how to cheer someone up and for also knowing how to deeply listen and help wherever needed. Thank you for leading with love and pride and for radiating positivity wherever you go. I’m so grateful to know you, be friends with you, and to of course be coming back to work with you soon. Thank you, Eugene, for being you.

-BD