YouTube Phenom Visits Champlain

Electronic game designer Matt Harding became a global celebrity by trekking the planet and posing one question: “Where the hell is Matt?” The answer -- showcased on www.wherethehellismatt.com -- includes video footage of Harding dancing a jig in destinations as far-flung as Antarctica and Myanmar. Until November 9, 2006, when he visited Champlain College, he had never wandered to a college to tout the virtues of global cultural awareness. During his visit at the invitation of International Business Program Director Tom Myers, Harding gave a presentation, attended a luncheon for e-gaming majors, and met with International Business classes.

Harding, originally from Connecticut, had been working in Brisbane, Australia, when he took flight in 2003. He documented his journey through YouTube video communication technology. The clips drew more than 1 million hits, catching the attention of the Cadbury Adams Co., makers of Stride gum, who then sponsored Harding on a second trip. When Harding returned to the States in June 2006, Myers approached him about sharing his experiences. Harding’s visit culminated in a group jig with more than 100 students on the College courtyard -- a convergence captured in a photo and article in the Burlington Free Press (photo at right).

Myers considers Harding’s visit a success. “You don’t necessarily need to travel the whole world in one shot like Matt,” he says. “You just need to get the bug early, and the excitement will stay with you.”

— Anthony Christiano ’06