Vic Henningsen
A graduate of Yale, Stanford, and Harvard, Vic was a ranger-naturalist with Vermont’s
Dept. of Forests & Parks before teaching history for many years at Phillips Academy
in Andover, Massachusetts. He’s also been a visiting scholar at Dartmouth, a summer
research fellow at the Massachusetts Historical Society and the Thomas Jefferson Foundation
at Monticello, and a regular commentator on Vermont Public Radio. (2/7/24)
Portrait of a Mind - Three Letters from Thomas Jefferson (Winter Term 2025)
Participant Testimonials:
Really enjoyed it. Vic is incredibly knowledgeable and very articulate in discussing sources, their significance, how to interpret them and where they fit into the larger context.
Vic has a comprehensive knowledge as well as personal connections with some of the most respected living historical biographers
Vic was outstanding in presenting and then encouraging and leading good dialogue among the participants
“Madness Rules the Hour” — Division and Disaster in the 1850s (Fall Term 2024)
Participant Testimonials:
Vic is extremely knowledgeable about this period, with broad and deep knowledge of the history and references. He was always well prepared. In addition to conveying information on the 1850s, Vic's knowledgeable comments on historiography provided useful insights into this aspect as well.
Vic is a master at engaging participants and encouraging all to participate in discussions. The small group discussions were very effective.
Never experienced anyone better at facilitating class participation
Portrait of a Mind - Three Letters From Thomas Jefferson (Winter Term 2024)
Participant Testimonials:
The letters gave the course a logical and natural organization. Classes were a very good mix of a small amount of presentation and larger amount of discussion. They never lagged.
Vic has invaluable and outstanding knowledge of American history and is a superb study leader.
In the Devil’s Snare? – Witchcraft in Salem, 1692 (Fall Term 2023)
Participant Testimonials:
Bottom line - one of the very best courses I have taken at Osher, and I have taken a great many courses. Discussions were encouraged and well-managed. The success of the course was due in large part to Vic’s management and also a willingness of the class to participate.
Actually it exceeded expectations. This was the most thought provoking course I've taken at Osher.
Portrait of a Mind - Three Letters from Thomas Jefferson (Winter Term 2023)
Participant Testimonials:
Near perfect. The class discussions never lagged, nor was there a hurried feel either.
Consistent with the description. The course went well beyond in terms of depth of content. Excellent!
Brilliant presentation. To read the same source and extrapolate from letters.
“Madness Rules the Hour”—Division and Disaster in the 1850s (Fall Term 2022)
Participant Testimonials:
A number of people in the class were there because they had taken courses earlier with Vic and were very pleased indeed. I am one of those.
Very good use of supporting materials. Reading requirements were extremely helpful to understand the climate of the times. Class presentation and discussion deepened my appreciation of the class.