Ruben Van Kempen, known to many as “VK,” brought national and international recognition to Roosevelt High School and the Seattle School District through his dedication to theatre education. Over his career, he led students on performances at the International Fringe Festival in Edinburgh, Scotland, guided a tour in Hawaii with “Broadway’s Fabulous Century,” and represented Washington at the International Thespian Conference in Lincoln, Nebraska.

VK played a key role in reviving the International Thespian Society in Washington and served on both the WATE and Washington State Thespian boards. His high expectations inspired students to achieve excellence, many of whom went on to work on Broadway, in London, and in television.

His contributions were recognized with numerous honors, including the 2007 Gregory A. Falls Sustained Achievement Award, the first Ruben Van Kempen Arts Educator Award from Intiman Theatre, and the Christa McAuliffe 2000 Teaching Award. He was also listed in multiple editions of Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers.

At Roosevelt High School, Ruben Van Kempen directed three main stage productions annually and taught musical theatre workshops to students from across Washington and Oregon, leaving a lasting legacy on theatre education in the state.