Orwell Village School

Slate Valley is proud to spotlight Christopher Hanson, a 1991 graduate of Fair Haven Union High School, whose journey has taken him across the country—and around the world!

After starting at Northeastern University in Boston, Christopher completed both his undergraduate and master’s degrees through the University of Nebraska while serving in the U.S. Army, and later earned his doctoral degree from National University. He’s worked as a paramedic in Boston, a Physician Assistant in both military and civilian settings, and now serves as an innovation leader in healthcare quality in Texas. His career has taken him to over a dozen states and numerous countries—truly living the Dr. Seuss quote: “Oh, the places you’ll go!”

Christopher credits several FHUHS teachers for shaping his path:
- Mr. Whalen (Social Studies) – taught him the value of seeing other perspectives and engaging in thoughtful debate.
- Mr. Hier (History) – showed him that studying history helps us learn from the past.
- Mr. Ollie Allen (Substitute Teacher) – encouraged him to take calculated risks, a lesson that guided his life and career.

During his FHUHS days, Christopher wrestled his junior year and served his community as a volunteer firefighter and EMT.

Today, he continues to impact lives through health leadership and quality improvement. Outside of work, Christopher enjoys woodworking, painting, travel, pickleball, and playing the bagpipes. He’s also a proud father of two and grandfather to four granddaughters—“there isn’t quite anything like the love of grandkids,” he says.

His advice to current Slate Valley students?
“Never give up. It’s okay to not know what you want to be when you grow up—some days I still don’t. But never, ever give up trying to make yourself a better person.”

Thank you, Christopher, for sharing your journey and reminding us that learning, growth, and service never stop!