Weathering the Storm

In the early morning hours of March 3, 2020, residents across Nashville frantically sought shelter, huddling down with their loved ones as a deadly tornado outbreak swept across Middle Tennessee. But while most were desperately seeking to escape the historical storm, WTVF News Channel 5 meteorologist and Lausanne alumnus Henry Rothenberg ‘01 was heading directly toward the action.

“When it comes to storm chasing, understanding and respecting the risk involved is crucial,” Henry said. “While storm chasing brings a huge adrenaline rush, it’s important to remember that you are out there to provide potentially life-saving conformation during what is a scary time for many. The most challenging part is not allowing your emotions or personal feelings to take over during severe weather. When you know that a neighborhood with friends or family is in the path of something like a tornado or a flood, you have to remain focused on warning everyone in harm’s way.”

Henry shares his perspective from a helicopter during an active weather report.

Aside from catching his forecast on television, Henry can most likely be found in a storm tracking truck during severe or Winter weather. He’s more at home being out in the elements covering the storm than inside in the studio, a preference he developed long before his weather channel days. As a young child, Henry was terrified of storms, and when he was six years old, his cousin took him outside during the middle of one to confront that fear.

“As we stood at the edge of the carport, watching the storm surge around us, my cousin explained what was making all that noise,” Henry said. “At that moment, my fear suddenly turned to fascination and, eventually, became my career.”

A glimpse of the meteorologist’s on-air action as he broadcasts from the News Channel 5 Nashville studio.

During his time as Lynx, Henry says Lausanne supported his dream of becoming a tv meteorologist even further, which gave him the courage to email all the Memphis tv stations during his junior year about his interest in weather. While most of them responded, Henry received invites to visit a few stations, including one from WREG News Channel 3 weather and news anchor Todd Demers, who took the Lynx alumnus under his wing to learn the ways of the industry.

On days Henry had Study Hall for his first block, Lausanne allowed him to come in late so that he could go to Channel 3 and shadow Todd in the mornings and on days he had the class during the last block, he would leave early to watch as the news anchor covered the evening newscast.

Henry accepts an Emmy at the 36th Annual Midsouth Regional Emmy Awards for his coverage of the Nashville Christmas bombing.

“I feel this early start pursuing my passion is a big reason for the success I’ve had in my career,” Henry said. “I’ve covered everything from deadly tornado outbreaks to historic flooding and been honored with two Emmy Awards for my work. Lausanne pushed me to challenge myself while supporting my goals. I always felt that Lausanne understands everyone does not absorb knowledge the same way but finds ways to take the information and relate it to a person’s interest. I try to take that same approach today when talking about the weather with my viewers.”

The Lynx alum and a friend fearlessly pose for a picture in front of a tornado.

Henry had the opportunity to share his experience as a Lynx and his life since graduation with the Class of 2022 when he was invited back to his alma mater as this year’s guest speaker at graduation.

“Lausanne is a unique place, and their involvement and encouragement of the journey your life will take you on doesn’t necessarily end at graduation,” Todd said. “I graduated in 2001, and even teachers and staff that were not working at Lausanne at that time are supportive of my life experiences today. Lausanne has been a wonderful advocate to have, and I’m grateful for all the support they have shown!”