Chris Rogers

Orkan Olgac (a.k.a. Chris Rogers), 21, passed away on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 in Seaside Park, NJ. Orkan was a student graduating from the University of Connecticut in December 2020 with a Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Management and a minor in Analytics in the Honors Program. Graduating with a 4.0 GPA and as the President of the university's Health Care Management Society (HCMS) as well as the International Business Association, Orkan was a true leader in campus life radiating an intense enthusiasm and discipline. He never let a dull moment pass by. When he was out of school, Orkan was always ready for an adventure. At age 19, he set out on a trip to Iceland, unaccompanied, destined to see the world through his own eyes. Though he travelled alone, he always found allies along his way which blossomed into exceptional friendships. Soon after, he participated in an internship working with the managed care company, Aetna in Jacksonville, Florida assigned to a corporation-wide cost saving project with recognized success. Taking in the raw excitement of the health care management field, Orkan was determined to learn more. He spent the summer of 2020 working at an internship for the University of Colorado’s Hospital System’s Health Care Management Program.

During the pandemic, Orkan was leading HCMS meetings within the home. His family witnessed the spark this subject lit within his eyes and the passion he had for it in his heart. Driven by his work, Orkan always found a way to connect with people, help them find their passions the way he found his. He cared for others and whole-heartedly listened to them when they needed someone to rely on. He was a son, a brother, a friend, and above all a leader. He was someone to be admired and respected by all in the community.

He was a naturalist, sharing his immense love for animals and the outdoors, and an avid sportsman. In his high school years at E.O. Smith High School, Mansfield, CT he played varsity soccer (becoming the rookie member of the school team), ran track and cross-country (at state-wide competitive levels) and at his junior year became the high school’s track team captain. After high school, he continued to maintain his athleticism by participating in marathons and other running events, working out regularly and spending some time investing in body building. Despite his astonishing achievements at such a young age, he remained humble and respectful, only hoping to help others reach their goals and find their paths. He is missed dearly by those who knew him and those he touched. His memory will remain through sharing stories about his accomplishments, adventures and charismatic moments.

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