Chris Hanson, PhD

Chris Hanson, PhD has over 30 years of experience in business development, direct marketing, fundraising, organization development, and technology planning. Chris began their career in 1984 as the Co-founder and Controller of SANUS, the largest manufacturer of audio/video furniture and accessories in the country with thousands of retail outlets. In 1987, they founded Response Group, Inc., a business consulting practice working with organizations on marketing, fund development, and technology. In 1993, they became the Principal and Managing Director of Direct Expressions, Inc., a full-service direct marketing agency for national non-profit organizations. In 1998, they became the CEO and Co-founder of thedatabank, gbc (general benefit corporation), a pioneer in Software as a Service (SaaS) providing strategic information solutions using their proprietary CRM platform for nonprofits, government, and other social impact organizations nationwide. Finally, in 2016, Chris joined Capella University as a part-time faculty member, teaching courses in the MBA, Ph.D., DBA, and MA Leadership programs.

Chris Hanson, PhD obtained their Doctorate in Organizational Leadership, Policy, and Development from the University of Minnesota. Chris also holds a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership from St. Catherine University MAOL Program and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Management, General from Cardinal Stritch University.