Born in Philadelphia and raised both in the City and its most inner suburbs, Chris has spent his professional career in higher education, most recently as an assistant professor teaching English, communications, and humanities to adult learners; he has spent over twenty years teaching this population at the college level.  Additionally, he has spent many years directing the work of learning centers, academic support, retention initiatives, and college access programs.  As a first-generation college student who himself has twice been a working adult completing graduate coursework, he has a deep appreciation for the challenges adult learners often face while pursuing career advancement and further education, especially when they do not have adequate support.  Chris relishes working with students who have been deemed at-risk, and in professional roles he has supported students with learning disabilities and other academic challenges to their potential successes.  Community service programs and partnerships have been concurrent, continued interests throughout his career, as well, and he has led and served as a facilitator for several service learning and community service events.  He is an avid fly angler, which feeds his love of the outdoors and commitment to the environment.  Lastly, social justice, economic equity, and access are passions.  He is a working member of Philadelphia’s Weavers Way Co-op, the Friends of the Wissahickon, and Trout Unlimited.

Chris holds a BA and MA from Temple University in English and an MFA in poetry from Rosemont College, and he remains an ardent reader and writer. He spent some time as a music journalist and remains an admitted music snob and fan of the City’s live venues.  He is a father and spouse, living with his wife and son on the outskirts of the City’s vibrant northwest communities.