Leading with Compassion and Integrity

Recognized as a passionate and altruistic leader by both colleagues and classmates, Chris Zupfer '21 MBA embraces missions that impact the common good. His two years as an Executive MBA student at Opus College have prepared him to be a more capable, thoughtful, and ethical leader. 

"The program has encouraged reflection on my values as a leader," he says. "That's what will likely impact me the most as I move forward in my career. [At Opus] I found my True North." True north is known as the internal compass that sets people on a path toward their fullest potential as a leader.

The support team in the Executive MBA program was a top highlight for Chris. Before the pandemic, "they ensured that I always knew what to expect and feel supported throughout the program," he says. "The concierge approach was incredibly helpful considering the busy schedules for many of us [in the cohort]."

I found Opus to be a dynamic learning environment.

Opus has already been making an impact in his executive leadership role at Hill-Murray School. Before starting his MBA at St. Thomas, Chris says he was known to be "an emotional decision-maker." The Hill-Murray Foundation Board leadership had seen him grow to become a more analytical decision-maker. This transformation has increased trust in his leadership ability and led to additional investments in his development.

Chris's growth as a leader has made an impact on his team. They've grown closer and are exceeding goals together because "I’ve learned to be a better listener, motivator, and partner to my direct reports," he says.

With ethical and compassionate leadership skills rooted in impacting the common good, Chris looks forward to continuing to make an impact in the places he serves.