Chip's Story

As a child, I was taught that we were brought into this world to make it a better place. Whether from a Grandfather who spoke of service as the "rent" we pay for our place on earth, or parents who effected every thing they did with an sense of service, it was clear that we are here to make a difference, to leave our mark, in whatever way we can.

As I tried to navigate my way, I was led by a number of stars, each as inspirational as they were unique. At times, I imitated those I looked up to more than walked in my own shoes. That changed when because of a dramatic crisis I was forced to come to terms with who I was and what I was here for. It has been an ongoing process that continues today.

I began my journey as a school chaplain and later as a head of school. In such “churches,” I learned how to preach the gospel in creative and age-appropriate ways. The path led me to New Orleans (Trinity Episcopal School) then England (Eton College), before bringing me to my adopted home of New Hampshire (Holderness School). Eventually I was led to North Carolina, where I became the Headmaster of Canterbury School. Each chapter offered wonderful moments of deep connection with students and colleagues alike, but the pace and demands caused me to lose my way.

On January 25th, 2005, I had my last glass of wine and began the most important and difficult journey of my life, the journey toward my true self. Fortunately, I did not have to travel alone. My family and those on a similar journey surrounded me, and I learned how to live a more creative and spiritually connected life. I started painting and writing in an effort to bring something of myself into the world. My intention was to use my gifts and talents, whatever they may be, to draw others to the the sacredness of life, and to the one who brought us all into being.

A graduate of The Taft School, Hamilton College (BA, Creative Writing), The Virginia Theological Seminary (M.Div.), and the New Hampshire Institute of Art (MFA, Creative Writing), I live in Greensboro, North Carolina, with my wife and our blended family of seven children.