Chris was drawn to wilderness therapy by the opportunity to live and work in the wilderness with students. Throughout his life, he has come to discover that he deeply values connecting with people. He considers it such a gift to be able to get to know who people really are and what they really value.

Committed to continuous learning and expanding his own horizons, Chris obtained a bachelor's degree in biology from Hiram College, completed a graduate program in marine biology at Northeastern University, earned a Master of Science in biology from the University of Alabama, and a Master of Social Work from Western New Mexico University.

Before joining Open Sky in 2007, Chris worked for two other wilderness therapy programs. He transitioned to Open Sky because of its holistic approach to living in the wilderness. He was excited that food was considered to be medicine and that there was a focus on mindfulness practices to better get to know oneself. He also valued that the founders had been guides prior to starting Open Sky.

Chris appreciates the humanistic, whole-person approach. In 2017, with more than 1,500 field days as a Field Guide with Open Sky, Chris transitioned to Health Director. In this role, he utilizes his gifts, knowledge, and experience to support guides in their work and to strengthen the Medical team to be able to provide the best care possible for students.

Chris loves the ability to be creative in the wilderness. He connects through his heart and has faith in this process because he has seen it work over and over again with students, guides, and himself. By learning to feel and connect in wilderness therapy, he can provide stability for guides, students, and families in challenging moments.

During his time off, Chris spends a lot of time with friends and focuses on personal growth.