Originally from the United States, Chris is currently in his sixth year as Director at The International School of Azerbaijan (TISA) and his arrival to Baku coincided with TISA becoming a full member of CEESA. During his tenure as a first-time Director, Chris has managed a change in ownership/legal status, mission revision, Ministry of Education licensure, Strategic Planning cycle, IB/CIS 5-year synch visit and a capital build project.

Before joining TISA, Chris was the Secondary Principal of Istanbul International Community School (IICS), Associate Director of Sturgis Charter Public School and an administrator in Massachusetts, U.S. public schools. Prior to his roles in school leadership he was an athletics director and mathematics teacher in Stavanger, Norway and Tarsus, Turkey.  

He is joined in Baku by his wife, Mette. Their son Marius is a TISA Class of 2020 graduate. Chris graduated from Harvard University with a degree in Anthropology and from the Harvard Graduate School of Education with an M. Ed in Administration, Planning and Social Policy.

Chris’s work as a school leader focuses on developing student-centered school culture nurtured through empathy, empowerment and optimism. He prioritises personalized learning, student voice and authentic students experiences and - throughout his time in school leadership - he has continued to coach and teach as time and responsibilities allow.