Skidmore Spotlight: Chris Barnes
Chris Barnes, director of the Office of Student Diversity Programs (OSDP) within Campus Life and Engagement, provides programs for students of color, international students, and students who Identify as LGBTQ+.
“I focus on two main programs: the OSDP mentor program and OSDP clubs. Aside from that, I also sit on a number of committees with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion,” said Barnes, who joined Skidmore over the summer.
Before coming to Skidmore, Barnes served as a resident director in Residential Life at the University of Redlands in Redlands, California, where he was involved in Title IX and restorative justice work. One of the most interesting projects he worked on there was organizing cultural immersion trips for resident assistants.
“I handcrafted trips that exposed resident assistants to the different cultures around them. Students were able to go to celebrations like Cinco de Mayo, volunteer on skid row, or feed kids at a soup kitchen.”
He added that the most fun job he has ever held is selling Christmas trees.
“My family owns a Christmas tree lot and sells all kinds of trees around the holiday season. It’s nice to help bring some cheer to families and make sure everyone has a tree.”
When he is not on campus, Barnes enjoys staying active by traveling, hiking, biking, and spending time with friends and family.
Would you like to nominate an employee for recognition? Email us at swb@skidmore.edu.