Chris Upton
Director | College Outreach & Educational Partners
Christopher Upton is a dedicated community advocate based in Springfield, Missouri, known for his innovative approach to community engagement and his self-proclaimed title of “Silly Goose.” Since February 2025, he has served as the Director of College Outreach and Educational Partnerships at Harvest Solutions, focusing on building meaningful connections with colleges and universities to enhance educational opportunities.
Prior to this role, Christopher revitalized a vital community business, Adult Tendercare Center, where he served as Executive Director from 2017. Under his leadership, the center experienced a significant increase in clientele, showcasing his ability to blend traditional care with modern marketing strategies.
Christopher’s commitment to community enrichment is further exemplified by his recent initiative, Fund Friends 417. Launched in early 2025, this project involves hiding miniature figurines throughout downtown Springfield. For each figurine found and shared on social media, Christopher donates $1 to local charities, effectively combining community engagement with support for nonprofit organizations.
His academic background includes studies in Psychology and Sociology at Drury University, providing a strong foundation for his community-focused endeavors. Recognized for his contributions, Christopher was honored as one of the 2024 Men of the Year by the Springfield Business Journal.
Beyond his professional achievements, Christopher is an active presence on social media, sharing his love for Springfield and its vibrant community through his Instagram account, @my_417_life. His unique blend of professionalism and playful spirit continues to inspire and engage those around him.