Orkan Olgac (a.k.a. Chris Rogers), 21, passed away on Wednesday, January 13, 2021 in Seaside Park, NJ. He was a son, a brother, and a one-of-a-kind friend. His many academic achievements in school were always complemented by his adventures outside of school. At the 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 managed to find allies along the way which blossomed into exceptional friendships. Soon after, he participated in an internship working with the health care insurance company Aetna in Jacksonville, Florida where he was 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, while also making sure he thoroughly explored Denver’s terrain in his free time.

During the pandemic, he conducted his duties as the president of HCMS and IBA in his house. 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 had a natural ease in connecting with people. The first few attributes his peers noticed in him were charisma, intelligence, and a genuine interest in the subject at hand. Moreover, he cared for others and whole-heartedly listened to them when they needed someone to rely on. He knew exactly how to boost their confidence and make them feel capable. And when it came to making big career decisions, a second opinion from Orkan was particularly meaningful. He had a true gift for uplifting people around him and making them feel important. 

He was also a naturalist, a seeker of beautiful sunrises and an avid sportsman. His natural athleticism was always matched with an incredible work ethic. In his high school years at E.O. Smith High School, Mansfield, CT he played soccer, becoming the only freshmen member on the varsity team. His friends recall how he would be on the track nearly every single day practicing the 2-mile run for tryouts. He also ran for the school’s cross-country team and track team, competing at the state level from his very first season, later becoming the team captain. Through college he continued to maintain his fitness with an admirable discipline. He was always ready for a competition with his friends, but in handstands, arm wrestling, and underwater breath-holding the winner was clear from the start. 

Despite his astonishing achievements at such a young age, he remained humble and respectful, and constantly in awe of others’ success, using them as motivation and guidance. In addition, he knew how to transition the attention from himself to others, only hoping to help them reach their goals and find their paths as well. 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. 

The Orkan Olgac Memorial Foundation was created to honor the legacy and spirit of Orkan—an extraordinary friend, son, and member of our community. Each year, we host an annual 5K run in his memory, bringing together friends, family, and supporters to celebrate his life, raise funds, and reconnect in the spirit of camaraderie and remembrance. What began as a tribute has become a heartfelt tradition that reflects the strength of the bonds Orkan formed and the lasting impact he had on all of us.

Through the foundation, we also support the next generation of leaders in healthcare by awarding three $1,000 scholarships each year. These scholarships are intended to recognize and uplift students who embody the values Orkan held close—academic excellence, leadership, and a passion for service.

Our mission is to carry Orkan’s name forward—not only through memories and moments, but by supporting futures full of promise, integrity, and care.