A 1976 graduate of the University of Colorado, Chris studied psychology and behavioral genetics with leading researchers when the field was still in its infancy. She has been involved in genealogical research for over 35 years and is currently a Family History Consultant at a local Family Search Center. Growing up in a family of doctors and research scientist geeks, Chris loves combining her passion for genealogy with the science of genetics. One of her sons, who holds a doctorate in genetics, currently works at a university research laboratory seeking genetically engineered cures for tumors.

Chris enjoys family history vacations where she can walk the land of her ancestors. She particularly delights in sharing family history stories with her children and grandchildren, and she loves helping other young people discover their own family stories and fascinating ancestors. Her interest in family surname research has led her to become a co-administrator of the Y-DNA Knox Project at FTDNA.

Chris lives on a horse farm in Idaho, where she rides, trains horses, and teaches young equestrians. As a long-time breeder of Connemara Ponies, her research into coat color genetics in horses has sparked an interest in equine science among several of her students and children. Her love for the science of genetic genealogy, combined with her background in psychology and natural empathy for people seeking their personal truth, fuels her passion for helping others and advancing the mission of DNAngels.