Night-time Vocalist and Day-time Archivist
In the heart of Georgetown University, Lanah Koelle's office in White-Gravenor may sometimes appear vacant. However, it's a safe bet that she's hidden away in a nearby practice room, crooning a few jazz tunes to break the day's monotony.
A dedicated academic record manager for the College of Arts & Sciences, Koelle oversees the digital archive of academic records for a large portion of the university's undergraduates. She meticulously manages degree audits and tracks issues like under-enrolled students and open courses to ensure academic records are maintained accurately.
After hours, Koelle transforms, swapping her academic cap for a microphone. A favorite in the Washington, D.C., jazz circuit, she's a regular performer at Mr. Henry's, nestled on Capitol Hill. Since 2013, Koelle has graced stages throughout the city, seamlessly weaving her love for the genre with its rich history.
Jazz, with roots traceable to New Orleans in the late 19th century, is a perfect fusion for Koelle, marrying her passion for music and history. During her tenure as an undergraduate at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, she majored in ancient studies, eventually pursuing a master's degree in library science.
"Things from the past resonate with me," says Koelle. "I'm particularly fond of music from yesteryear." She finds joy in exploring the sounds, values, and preconceptions of eras past, reflecting on humanity's continuity and her humble place within it.
Having joined Georgetown in 2022, Koelle applies her expertise to keep student records updated and problem-free. Recognized for her accomplished service, she received the Distinguished Service Staff Award from the College in 2024.
Despite her demanding job, Koelle always finds time for jazz. Her debut album, 'Straight Up Sassafras,' released in 2018, bears her unique interpretations of jazz legends like Cole Porter and Fats Waller.
Reflecting on her journey, Koelle credits her early love for organizing books, coupled with her part-time job at a Hollywood Video store, for igniting her passion for library science. At work, she sees herself as a problem-solver, determined to assist students and faculty in finding the information they require.
Outside of work, music remains Koelle's heartbeat. As a magnet high school student, she pursued classical vocal studies, but found it lacked her desired self-expression. Discovering jazz and its limitless potential for improvisation filled that gap, allowing her to make each performance her own.
Louis Armstrong, the jazz luminary, stands out among Koelle's favorites. The spirit he embodied – his phrasing and improvisation – continues to inspire her today. For those venturing into the genre for the first time, she recommends starting with Armstrong's infectious rhythms.
In Washington, D.C., Westminster Presbyterian Church presents a Friday jazz series that spotlights local musicians for just $10. If you're fortunate enough to attend, you'll likely find Koelle in the audience, reveling in the camaraderie and support within the jazz community.
At Georgetown University, Koelle seems most at home by the grand pianos in the Davis Performing Arts Center lobby. From the piano bench, she gazes out the windows at the trees, finding solace and inspiration. When she seeks culinary delights, Boulangerie Christophe's croissants and cappuccinos offer a fitting indulgence.
Through her affinity for art, Koelle has recently been enthralled by the film "Portrait of a Lady on Fire." It resonates with her, as she ponders the art of observation – something she puts into practice in her dual roles as jazz performer and academic record manager, seamlessly weaving together her love for music and history.
- Lanah Koelle, a faculty member at Georgetown University, manages the digital archive of academic records for a significant portion of the university's undergraduates, ensuring education and self-development records are maintained accurately.
- Beyond her academic responsibilities, Koelle immerses herself in the world of jazz, using her unique blend of voice and history to captivate audiences at venues like Mr. Henry's, contributing to the entertainment scene.
- In her downtime, Koelle delves into the realm of fashion-and-beauty, finding solace in the cozy ambiance of Boulangerie Christophe, satisfying her cravings for croissants and cappuccinos.
- As a music enthusiast, Koelle frequently attends local events such as the Friday jazz series at Westminster Presbyterian Church, showcasing her passion for the genre alongside other musicians in the community.
- Alongside her love for music, Koelle cherishes classic books, drawing inspiration from tales of yesteryear in her education and self-development, reflecting her profound reverence for the past and its profound impact on the present.
