With the launch of our new Acadian Alumni Association, we aim to showcase the achievements of our alumni who continue, even after they have left Acadian, to do good within the community. Our first spotlight is newly retired Clay Henry, who spent four decades with Acadian Ambulance, most recently as vice president of operations. We caught up with Clay to find out what he’s been doing since retiring at the start of 2019.
Clay Henry, former VP of Operations
What have you been doing since you retired?
Hunting and traveling. I have a deer lease in Columbia, Louisiana, where I hunt with my son, and I fish saltwater with my bay boat.
What volunteer work have you done in the community?
I currently serve on the board of directors for AMIkids Acadiana, a nonprofit dedicated to helping youth develop into responsible and productive citizens. I serve with pride knowing that I am still representing Acadian Ambulance. I also support St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Lafayette Education Foundation.
What was the best part about working for Acadian?
My fellow employees. They are some of my best friends who I still socialize with and will for the rest of my life.
What is your favorite memory from your time at Acadian?
Working side-by-side with Richard Zuschlag, David Pierce, Jerry Romero, Blane Comeaux and Mike Burney during Hurricanes Katrina and Rita and watching the team do things that no other EMS system could accomplish. I realized then there was nothing we couldn’t achieve.
What advice would you give a new Acadian employee?
Have patience. Understand that this is a business that never closes, and each employee must be efficient and show compassion to our customers. Realize that over time there will be ups and downs, but keep yourself focused on the big, long-term picture. Participate in ESOP early in your career, so you can earn wealth for the benefit of yourself and your family. But you have to be an active participant in the culture of Acadian.
