Christopher A. Burnett, Ph.D., has spent more than 28 years helping college students discover that some of life's best classrooms don't have four walls. As Director of Outdoor Education at Colorado College, he leads programs that combine adventure, leadership, experiential learning, and just the right amount of dirt, snow, and whitewater to transform students into confident leaders.
Throughout his career at institutions including Colorado College, The University of Texas at Austin, Northern Arizona University, Texas State University, UC Davis, and Texas A&M University, Chris has built nationally recognized outdoor recreation, campus recreation, and student leadership programs. Whether launching civic engagement initiatives, rebuilding departments, teaching future leaders, or mentoring hundreds of student employees, his work centers on one simple belief: the most meaningful learning happens through experience.
Chris earned his Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership and Policy from The University of Texas at Austin, where his research focused on how campus employment, experiential learning, and student affairs prepare graduates for lifelong success. He has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and regularly presents his research at national conferences, exploring topics including student employability, leadership development, equity, and the transformative power of student employment.
When he's not writing, teaching, or leading strategic initiatives, you'll likely find Chris backpacking through the mountains, paddling whitewater, preparing exceptional meals for friends and family, or convincing students that carrying a heavy pack uphill or swimming a class IV rapid is somehow "character building." Fortunately, they're usually grateful by the end of the trip. Above all, Chris is passionate about helping students discover their strengths, build meaningful connections, serve their communities, and leave college with the confidence and skills to thrive wherever life takes them.
