Dr. Christopher Conzen

Personal Pronouns: He/Him
Country of Origin/Citizenship/Nationality: Italy, United States

Educational Background
Ed.D., Higher Education Administration, Nova Southeastern University
M.Ed., College Student Personnel, University of Maryland, College Park
B.A., Social Work, The Catholic University of America

Certifications/Trainings
Implicit Bias Training, Mental Health First Aid, Safe Space Training, Title IX | Sexual Harassment

Chris began his tenure at HCCC as the inaugural Executive Director of the Secaucus Center with responsibility for the overall planning and organization of the college's presence and partnership with the Hudson County Schools of Technology. In 2020, Chris expanded his role to include the Early College Program. In this additional role, Chris manages HCCC's partnerships with area high schools to provide opportunities for high school students to earn college credits, including those earning full associate degrees simultaneously with a high school diploma.

Chris is a first-generation college graduate who has worked in higher education for over 20 years. Born in Queens, NY, and raised in Parsippany, NJ, Chris knew early on that he wanted to pursue a career that opened the door of opportunity to all individuals. He has worked at a number of different types of institutions of higher education, but he always felt most at home working in the community college sector, which would lead to him being recognized by NASPA as the Community College Professional of the Year in 2014. Chris was excited for the opportunity to return to the community college world in 2019 when he was hired to helm the new Secaucus Center, and has felt at home ever since. During the course of his career, Chris has also been heavily involved in professional association work. Chris served for a number of years on the NASPA Region II Advisory Board, creating a new role that managed the region's nascent social media presence. Chris also chaired the region's 2014 conference and co-chaired mid-manager initiatives. Currently, Chris serves as a member of NASPA's new Mid-Manager Advisory Board.

Hobbies/Interests: Chris is an avid karaoke singer and a long-suffering New York Mets fan.

Favorite Quote: "If I can stop one heart from breaking, I shall not live in vain; If I can ease one life the aching, Or cool one pain, Or help one fainting robin Unto his nest again, I shall not live in vain." - Emily Dickinson