Chris found a community at Highline that supported his success. Now, he’s making his mark supporting his community of Federal Way.

Chris originally planned to attend the University of Washington his freshman year of school, but his mother was suffering from a terminal illness. He decided to attend Highline because it was a short drive from his home in Federal Way and he could continue to take care of his mother.

Just a few weeks before starting classes, his mother died.

"Given the challenges I was dealing with my freshman year of college, I believe that Highline gave me the opportunity to meet those challenges successfully," Chris said.

"Highline today is still providing great educational opportunities for students in a variety of situations, some that like me, who might not have been ready for a four-year school," he said.

After receiving his associate degree in economics, Chris earned a bachelor’s degree in political science at the University of Washington.

He currently keeps residents and the media informed about the Federal Way community as the communication and grant coordinator for the Federal Way Mayor’s Office.

He previously worked as executive director of the Friend of the Hylebos for 10 years. The group works to conserve and restore the stream, wetland and forest habitat around Hylebos Creek, located in the Federal Way-Tacoma area.

Learn more about Chris and the Federal Way Mayor’s Office: www.cityoffederalway.com

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