A native of Cleveland, OH, Chris is a proud alumnus of Saint Bonaventure University (1993) and John Carroll University (1996).  During his college studies, Chris had the privilege to study in Rome, Italy for two years and to be a member of the residence life staff at Loyola University’s (Chicago), Rome Center.   Additionally, Chris received his certificates in School Leadership and District Leadership from the University of Rochester in 2007.

His 30-year career in education began in 1994, serving at his high school alma mater for two years before moving to Syracuse, New York.  In Upstate New York, Chris made a name for himself as a speaker, workshop presenter, and advisor to several K-12 schools.  In that period, he published two books on the topics of peer ministry and adolescent spirituality.  In 2003, at the age of 32, Chris was asked to become the founding principal of Rome Catholic School in Rome, NY and 5 years later was appointed Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Syracuse.  During his tenure as Superintendent, Chris worked tirelessly to bring a fresh and innovative approach to how Catholic education was delivered in schools and parishes.  

On July 1, 2013, Chris was appointed Secretary of Education and Chief Operating Officer for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.  During his tenure he was charged with rebuilding the central office operations, identifying top talent for high school leadership roles, and changing the mindset of a school system that had experienced difficult times.  As a champion for leadership, mission, vision, and cultural transformation Chris proudly carried a message of hope and optimism to donors, benefactors, and stakeholders across the Archdiocese.  Chris’ national reputation for changing culture and promoting a growth mindset gave him the opportunity to speak across the country and to work with organizations in need of change.   In 2016 Chris was appointed to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishop’s Committee on Education where he worked closely with leaders across the country to improve the mission of Catholic education.

In September of 2018, Chris assumed the duties of Chief Executive Officer at West Chester University’s Foundation.  As the comprehensive advancement arm of the University, the Foundation was responsible for all fundraising operations along with an annual goal of $10M.  At the board’s request, Chris immediately began a culture transformation establishing a new mission, vision and set of core values with his valued employees.  Additionally, he worked to improve the governance function of the board, the relationship with the University, the confidence of the donors, and the retention of employees.  Under his leadership, the Foundation raised record funds amid the pandemic and launched a comprehensive campaign centered on student success that had raised over $50M by April of 2022.

Upon leaving his role at the Foundation in June of that year, Chris took time away from work to spend time with his family, renewed his commitment to leadership, and reflected on the next stage of his career.  In September of 2022 he founded Avanti Advisors, LLC with the hopes of taking his experience and bringing to the education and non-profit sectors a unique set of services focused on people, culture, and talent development.  

Chris’ proudest accomplishment is the family that he shares with his wife of 25 years, Stephanie.   Chris and Stephanie reside in Chester County, PA with their four young adult children.