2015 Inductee
Skilled professional in all forms of photography, both still and video, and non-linear video editing. Director of Photography, writer, editor, producer, dog handler, talent wrangler, friend to Governors, Hawaiian shirt wearer, professional braggart and aspiring lottery winner
These lines from Andy’s resume are unique, funny, wry, accurate … and just as comprehensively incomplete. For almost 40 years he worked in the TV business in the Heartland region and, while his work garnered recognition and awards almost past counting, it’s his amazing attitude that leaves the largest legacy.
Since 1989 he was a fixture at KUSA Denver’s creative services department, with a talent that touched 85% of that station’s promotional advertising and produced hundreds of television spots. Instantly recognizable by his attire – shorts and Hawaiian shirts every day of the year – he said ‘hi’ to everyone, and could often be found sharing technology, taking a novice photographer under his wing, or making a mid-afternoon coffee run. He embraced his work with curiosity and cleverness, frequently building by hand the specific prop he needed for a shoot. During his career he worked with a Who’s Who of athletes, politicians and movie stars.
Andy exuded positivity, creativity and enthusiasm. The people he worked with, whether in front of or behind the camera, whether a fellow professional or a member of the community, came away with a smile and a sense that great things were possible. He took the mystery and anxiety out of the process, laughed and made friends, and had fun. He had a way with talent: making them feel as if this moment right now was the most delightful place to work – it was his signature modus operandi. He was the consummate ambassador for our industry.
His love for Colorado is well-known, and not just by the two Governors who have officially recognized him; Andy gave his time and resources generously to Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado, promoting the care of natural resources. His spare time and energy were taken up with his beloved family, his two dogs, and his backcountry escape, Chez Fir.