Chris Garant (he, him) is a Development and Training Specialist with an applied background in program level assessment, leadership development, and DEIJ student support. In his role with the College Advising Corps, Chris develops and distributes tools and resources for effective advising practices, and provides end-to-end training and development opportunities for staff and advisers to increase college readiness in K-12 learners.Prior to working with the College Advising Corps, Chris worked in higher education institutions to increase the resources, knowledge, and skills necessary for LGBTQ+ and BIPOC student success. Most recently, he worked in the LGBTQ+ Pride Center at North Carolina State University as the team lead for student leadership, engagement, and curriculum development. In this role, he was instrumental in revitalizing leadership programs that intentionally engaged students’ social identities. He has also worked extensively with K-12 educators in the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic, designing and facilitating practical trainings around supporting LGBTQ+ students in the midst of rapidly evolving legal requirements.Chris holds both a B.A. in English and Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies and an M.Ed. in College Student Personnel Administration from James Madison University. Outside of work, he is a hybrid athlete who enjoys endurance running and road cycling. He loves to cook, read, and take his dog on hikes. He is based out of Raleigh, North Carolina.