Following an extensive search, Chris Giangreco joined our team in early November as Deputy Director for Friends of Cedar Mesa. Chris’s role will be focused on helping build internal infrastructure for the organization as it continues to grow.
Chris comes to FCM with experience in nonprofit management and development as well as time working in San Juan County to help promote education and conservation. He spent the first 15 years of his career as a researcher and advocate for low-income families in Chicago. From 2015-2018, Chris helped grow the Four Corners school into its current home at the Canyon Country Discovery Center, steering the organization through the transition of its founding director.
“Southeastern Utah is a special place. The cultural and natural history shape the diverse communities in profound ways,” says Chris. “I am humbled and honored to work in such an incredible place with such unique and knowledgeable communities.”
Chris grew up on the rolling plains outside of Kansas City, playing in the woods and creeks around his home. His love of the land expanded from the Heartland to the bayous around Jean Lafitt while studying in New Orleans and the Indiana Dunes while earning his Ph.D. in Chicago. He spent the first fifteen years of his career as a researcher and advocate working to create equitable policies for low-income families.
While living in the Texas Hill Country, Chris took an impromptu desert climbing trip to San Juan Country and fell in love with the land, sky, and unique cultural diversity of the Colorado Plateau. While Chris claims he’s getting too old for impromptu climbing trips, he’s thrilled to be back on the Colorado Plateau helping Friends of Cedar Mesa protect and build respect for the greater Bears Ears region.
“This is an incredible time for the Bears Ears region,” says Chris. “ I look forward to helping Friends of Cedar Mesa support land management agencies, Tribal partners, and local community members ensure all that is great about this area remains protected for future generations.”
Chris not only contributes a unique perspective to the FCM team because of his background in research and advocacy, but leads by example in his enthusiasm and dedication to the community surrounding FCM and the mission that guides the unique work we do.
We are so thrilled to have Chris as a member of our team and know he will help in leading Friends of Cedar Mesa into this next chapter. Join us in welcoming Chris!