Chris is one of those leaders that often flies under the radar, but is the glue to many projects here at University of Wisconsin -Stevens Point (UWSP). He thinks critically and is always a listening ear for his fellow staff members and students alike. 

Chris grew up on the north side of Chicago (not the suburbs). He has now lived in Portage county for the past 14 years.

He attended the UWSP to study interpersonal and organizational communication. Chris says it took a little time getting adjusted to the area when he arrived from Chicago. After having two roommates from Rhinelander, learning not to be terrified of wild deer, and figuring out what a bubbler was…he really started to settle in to the campus and the community.

For Chris, UWSP was different in the sense that they were really wanting what was best for him. They helped create a unique pathway that would allow him to start college a little bit slower at a neighboring technical college, while living out what ended up feeling like a regular UWSP college experience in his first year. Through his studies and involvement, Chris realized he wanted to work at a university to some capacity. Initially, he started out as an academic advisor because he wanted to help students figure out what majors would be a good fit for them, as well as help them navigate their coursework.

After completing his bachelor’s degree, and taking three years of graduate courses. He landed his first full time job as an Admissions Counselor on campus. He soon realized that he was even more interested in helping students visualize a UWSP college experience. His current job was to create email campaigns and collaborate with other university faculty and staff on how to best tell the UWSP story to prospective students. There are so many selling points that the university and the Stevens Point community have to offer students. While living in the community, he has been an undergraduate student, a graduate student, and now a staff member at the university.

He didn’t expect to be here this long "I certainly wouldn’t have it any other way because the university and community have given me so much; most importantly my amazing partner Brittany".

Chris's Favorite's:

Song: "Moment of Truth" – Gang Starr

Food: Homemade air fryer french fries

Book: Anything written by John Grisham

Quote: “Everyone has a plan ‘till they get punched in the mouth” – Mike Tyson

What makes you happy?

My partner Brittany, being around my friends, craft beer, and goofy mini doodle Lando. I love debating/arguing topics from sports, to movies, to best ways to prepare bacon (pan fried). 

How does living in Portage County influence you?

I think having grown up in a larger city and now having lived in Stevens Point, I have learned to value new and different perspectives. I have grown to appreciate how friendly absolute strangers are capable of being. Regardless if it’s a simple wave or head nod while passing by on the sidewalk, or a 12 minute life story from a stranger in line at the Kwik Trip - it reminds me to be open and be kind to people.

Where are you headed?

I’m hopeful for a career in consulting that would allow me to visit many places, learn different cultures, and see different sites. While I love the idea of helping someone reach their goals, I also love the lessons I would likely learn along the way.

What can people from the community learn from you?

It’s okay to get out of your comfort zone. You never know what you might latch onto until you actually try it. If it’s not going to do you any harm – its at least worth a try.

What is your most deeply held belief?

Instead of treating people how you want to be treated, treat them how they want to be treated. People are complex. Their background, reality, and “normal” might not be the same as yours. There is so much to people beyond the surface.

Do you prefer to donate time or money to those in need?

I certainly think some situations warrant both. With that said, while money can buy things, time can be spent on priceless commodities.