Sioux City, Iowa - Chris Mansfield has made a career of practicing what he preaches to his students.
As program coordinator of the mass communication program at Western Iowa Tech Community College (WITCC), Chris encourages students to put everything they can into their passions.
“Students should not consider that education is limited to class time. The students I have seen excel go “all-in” on their education. If you show interest, you will find a support structure of mentors that will take a similar interest in your progress,” says Chris.
A North High School alum, Chris credits his middle and high school teachers with introducing him to new concepts, which allowed him the freedom to choose his path. One of those teachers was Fritz Burow, who served as an English teacher and newspaper and yearbook advisor at North High during Chris’s high school years.
“Fritz taught me the value of accuracy, being able to express yourself in the written word, and the power of photography,” adds Chris. “The instructors I had were always supportive of my goals and taught me to be on the lookout for opportunities to exercise my talents. Connections I made through my time in the District were extremely influential and continue to be.”
After graduating from North High in 1985, Chris attended Morningside College for a time before embarking on a long career in the media business. His first job was at KCAU 9, followed by a move to KTIV News Channel 4 where he served as senior director responsible for directing the 6 pm and 10 pm newscasts and other live events. Chris later worked at Long Lines as a corporate videographer and web designer before running his own production house.
An opportunity to start adjunct instructing brought him to WITCC in 2008. He finished his degree and ventured into curriculum development at WITCC. That position led to a full-time instructor position and then coordination of WITCC’s mass communication program where he is today.
In his free time, Chris enjoys reading, scale modeling, photography, and working on documentaries for causes close to him. He also enjoys spending time with his wife and grown children.
Chris is a huge advocate of education, encouraging others to not only chase their dreams but take steps to achieve them.
“I am a strong believer in post-secondary education of any kind, whether it be a trade school or a two-year or four-year college. It’s an opportunity for students to truly explore what skills they would like to develop to aid them in the workplace and life.”