Hi! I’m Chuck and I’m so glad you’ve reached out to College Connectors. I’ve been an Independent Educational Consultant with College Connectors since 2015, and I’ve loved helping so many students find the right college fit. My favorite part of the process is learning about each student’s interests and involvement and then helping them find a college or university where they can explore their passions and make meaningful connections.
I bring over two decades of experience in higher education to my work, including more than ten years as Associate Director of Admissions and Transfer Coordinator at Lawrence University, as well as experience in Residence Life at Grinnell College and Disability Services and Transfer Admissions at Iowa State University. That breadth of experience means I understand the college world from many angles — and I use all of it to help my students. I’m also a bit of a college geek myself, having personally toured over 250 colleges and universities across 33 states. There’s nothing quite like walking a campus and thinking about how it might be the perfect fit for a student I’m working with.
The families I work with often say that working with me took the stress out of the process and allowed them to just enjoy being a parent. Students have described me as someone who builds rapport and trust quickly, helping them get genuinely excited about their future. One family put it best when their younger daughter was asked what her brother’s college application experience taught her about the process — she simply said, “Talk to Chuck.”
When I’m not working, you can find me cheering on the Vegas Golden Knights, Milwaukee Brewers, Iowa State Cyclones, or Green Bay Packers. I enjoy catching live music — especially country — or a Broadway touring musical. I love traveling, trying new restaurants, and adding to my tattoo collection. My spouse and I have been together for 20 years and are proud to call the Fox Valley our home.
Favorite professional achievement
Receiving the HECA 2026 Bob Dannenhold Award, given to a member who provides exceptional service to underserved populations, in recognition of my work with my Don’t Chuck It Up podcast and YouTube channel.
Favorite personal achievements
Serving on the Friends of the Appleton Public Library Board of Directors, which fundraised over $12 million for a renovated library — and visiting 48 states! Alaska and Maine, I’m coming for you.
How I describe College Connectors to families
College Connectors is a team of admissions experts who are passionate about helping students and families find colleges and universities that are a great academic, social, and financial fit. We help reduce the stress and increase the enjoyment of the college search and application process.
My favorite working environment
My sunroom or back patio on a beautiful day with a strong cup of coffee — nothing beats working outside when the weather cooperates!
Favorite college resources
Of course, I’d start with my own Don’t Chuck It Up podcast! I’d also recommend these books:
- Colleges That Change Lives by Hilary Massell Oswald and Loren Pope
- Where You Go Is Not Who You’ll Be by Frank Bruni
- How to College by Andrea Malkin Brenner and Lara Hope Schwartz
- The College Finder by Steven R. Antonoff
My important credentials
- MEd, Higher Education/Student Affairs, Iowa State University
- BA, Spanish (Education), Lawrence University
- BMusic, Choral/General Music Education, Lawrence University
Professional Member of IECA, HECA, and Wisconsin ACAC.
