Chris connects the dots between mission, message, and market so you can convey your vision and value more effectively.

Approaching diverse challenges with the eye of a communications strategist, Chris has helped deliver $100M+ consulting proposals, restructured non-profit operations, and led small business development efforts. His writing has been featured in outlets such as Inside Higher Ed and Research Professional News – and he has spoken on finding post-PhD career success at institutions such as Princeton, Johns Hopkins, and Stanford. His book, Leaving Academia: A Practical Guide, was published by Princeton University Press in 2020.

Chris currently lives in New Orleans with his wife Mallory, their son Caleb, and their cat Li’l Easy. He tweets at @clcaterine.

"I was already teaching full-time when I realized the academic life I'd sought so desperately was out of reach. Actually, it was a mirage. Informational interviews revealed a world of jobs that were more attractive and better suited to my skills--and helped me escape the paralyzing identity crisis that accompanied my departure from academia.

I can't wait to present my book, 'Leaving Academia', to the GradFUTURES community. It is the product of my own difficult experience with self-doubt and uncertainty, one I know many of those involved with GradFUTURES have shared. I'm excited to share my insights about how informational interviews and strategic planning can pave the way, not just to a new career future, but also improved self-confidence and understanding.

It's unfair to expect other people to get a PhD worth of education to understand what you do as an academic. Learning their language and translating your experience into terms that resonate is essential for you to pivot careers successfully.

GradFUTURES Forum 2022 will be my fourth event for GradFUTURES. It's always a pleasure to feel the energy and excitement you all bring to career management! Additionally, my wife is a Princeton PhD (Classics 2013). I have many fond memories of Bent Spoon, D'Angelo's, and yes, even the dBar."

Yes, I am open to being contacted by a Princeton Graduate Student for an informational interview!

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