ABOUT CHRIS
I'm an experienced diversity, equity and inclusion professional with a demonstrated history of working in higher education. I am a gay, cis-male, Mexican American and a first generation college graduate.
As an 18 year resident of Duluth, Minnesota, I have served as an Academic Excellence Coordinator at the University of Minnesota Duluth Office of Diversity and Inclusion, Director of Diversity and Inclusion at the College of St. Scholastica and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Specialist at Life House.
I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Teaching, General Business Certificate and Human Services Certificate at the University of Minnesota Duluth and I am a certified Qualified Administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI).
My background in teaching greatly influences my planning, strategies and approach to DEI work and learning. DEI work requires behavioral changes at its core and I believe that the success starts with building strong relationships, supporting a welcoming environment that is challenging and safe for making mistakes and learning, having clear expectations while being flexible to adjust to the needs of the client and organization.