Hi! I'm Chris
I am an award-winning author, keynote speaker, and founder dedicated to empowering teen and single mothers to achieve academic and personal success and emotional health and wellness.
I am the founder of Wellness pH Productions, LLC a start-up multi-media company and Teen Moms Anonymous, a 12-step support group and mentorship program for teen mothers and adult mothers who were teen mothers, especially those who survived violence and abuse.
In 2023, I published my first book, Helping Teen Moms Graduate: Strategies for Families, School, and Community Organizations (Rowman & Littlefield, Feb. 15, 2023) which received two prestigious awards:
- Nautilus Book Award (Silver Winner, 2024)
- PenCraft Book Award (Literary Excellence Runner-up, 2023).
My research centers on breaking cycles of violence, abuse, and teen pregnancy, providing women with the tools to do so and guidance to thrive as women and mothers.
My academic and professional background underscores my expertise. I earned my B.A. in English from Wofford College and M.Ed. in Secondary English from Converse College. I began my career as a public school English teacher and served in that role for seven years.
I later advanced to higher education, receiving my Ph.D. from The University of North Carolina at Charlotte and holding a position as Assistant Professor in the School of Education at Claflin University. My doctoral research focuses on strategies to support pregnant and parenting students (teen mothers) in achieving their educational goals.
Through my research, teaching, coaching, and public speaking, I am grateful and humbled to have guided countless women and families toward academic achievement and personal growth.
Outside of my professional work, I enjoy maintaining a balanced and enriching lifestyle. I enjoy being outside, traveling, singing, shopping, decorating, cooking, and gardening.
My personal interests reflect my holistic approach to wellness and life balance, which I also bring into my work with clients and mentees. I am grateful to continue inspiring others through my writing, speaking engagements, and coaching, helping women build confidence, resilience, and lasting success.