He’s an institution of Eastern Illinois University.

He’s roamed this campus as a student, sat in meetings in these buildings as an administrator, attended athletic events as a fan and kept in contact with the student body the way a parent figure would.

‘Hi, my name is Lou and I work here’ is the phrase Hencken uses to introduce himself to new students on campus.

For that reason and many more, Lou Hencken (above) will be missed when he retires on June 30 as Eastern’s president.

Replacing an icon is always difficult.

William Perry, Eastern’s new president, won’t be like the Lou we know. But, like Hencken has insisted all year, change is good.

But the change isn’t done yet.

Here are three endearing qualities of Hencken that will be missed.

1. Openness with students – Hencken jokes that the only students he sees are Daily Eastern News reporters and student government representatives. This isn’t true. Hencken can be seen around campus just walking around, or, like at the beginning of the year, driving golf carts full of new and eager freshmen. The man’s humility and ability to interact with the student body is a quality not many administrators at any university posses.

2. Attending events – From musical performances to theatrical performances to sporting events, Hencken’s face is visible. He puts his face out there for alumni to see, the community to see and most importantly, for the students to see.

3. Candy everywhere – Don’t confuse Hencken for Willy Wonka. But the supply of Tootsie Rolls he keeps is quite legendary. When people enter his office on the first floor of Old Main, one of the first things he does is hand them a Tootsie Roll. Here’s hoping Perry has a sweet tooth also.