01/09/2026
After six years of hard work and dedication, it is with bittersweet sentiment that we announce that Henry Rowlison, founder and executive director of The Play Lab has decided to step down and take on a new role in life. The team at The Play Lab would like to thank him immensely for his guidance and for sharing his great knowledge of Occupational Therapy and of the human condition. The Play Lab was formed to fill a gap in the community, to focus on the children in Las Cruces who have experienced adversity and provide them with a space that is safe and can help them grow. Henry's vision has been a success, and the Play Lab has grown from providing services to 6 children at the start of 2020, to more than 300 in 2025. Facing challenges like Covid-19, ACEs, and the growing technology epidemic have been challenging for clients and staff, but Henry has always been a strong, steady force, ready to give wisdom and support at a moment’s notice. Under Henry's leadership, The Play Lab has been voted as the best OT clinic in Las Cruces every year since 2023. Speaking with staff upon Henry's departure, the strongest theme is that Henry created “the best working environment” that many staff members have ever experienced and that The Play Lab will not be the same without him. The Play Lab will continue to grow and thrive, providing services to our community because we have the best staff there is to have. We appreciate him laying the foundation for something truly unique and positive for our staff and the community.
Thank you Henry.
