Alumni Profile: Chris Ratcliff says Henderson experience transformed his life

Chris Ratcliff

Chris Ratcliff graduated from Henderson State University in 2005 with a bachelor's degree in Sports and Community Management in Parks and Recreation, and received his master's in Sports Administration from Henderson in 2006. He later earned his Doctor of Philosophy from the University of the Cumberland.

Ratcliff also served as an assistant women's basketball coach for Henderson from 2003-2006. He is currently vice-president for intercollegiate athletics at Rogers State University in Claremore, Oklahoma.

Ratcliff's wife, Andrea Edmondson Ratcliff, graduated from Henderson with her master's in 2006. They have two children.

Q&A

How did your education and experiences at Henderson prepare you for your career path?

I am where I am today thanks to my education and the opportunities I received at Henderson State. The education I gained there helped me secure my first head coaching position, and earning my master's degree paved the way for me to become an athletic director by the age of 33. My education transformed my life which is unbelievable. I have been very blessed and I owe it all to Henderson State.

What motivates you to serve on the HSU Alumni Advisory Board?

I have always made it a priority to mentor young people and share life lessons along the way. I am committed to helping others succeed because I know I would not be where I am today without the support of those who helped me.

What were some of your favorite memories from your time at Henderson?

My favorite memory centered around my time working with the women's basketball teams. Going to the Final Four in 2004 was unbelievable. We were a team that everyone counted out after starting 4-11. The team figured it out and bought in. They did not lose again until the Final Four. That was one of my favorite memories.

How did your college experience shape who you are today?

I learned how to manage my time better and become a critical thinker. It showed me how to work with so many different groups with very differing opinions.

Were there any specific courses or professors that had a significant impact on you?

I had a deep appreciation for Dr. Stanley (though she will always be Dr. Leggett to me). I took several of my master's classes with her, and they were consistently thought-provoking and engaging. I gained insights not only about the subject matter but also about real life. One undergraduate class that particularly stood out was Geography of the Pacific. It sparked my interest in the region, and Fiji is now definitely on my list of places to visit because of this class and my professor.

What message would you like to send to future Henderson students?

It is about the relationships you build. I have a favorite quote by Maya Angelou: "I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Treat everyone you encounter with kindness and patience. They are a person just like you.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?

I would like to fly. It would be awesome to just get to see the world from a different lens without any obstacles in my way.

What is your favorite hobby or activity to unwind after a busy day at work?

I love being in the yard working with our chickens. It just helps me unwind.

What is the most interesting place you've ever visited and why?

We have been fortunate to travel quite a bit, but if I had to choose a favorite destination, it would be a small village in Italy (Riomaggiore in the Cinque Terre region). The town was right on the ocean with all those pastel homes on a cliff, and it had a very low-key vibe with the cobblestone streets. We just loved walking and visiting the shops, and then watching the sun set.

If you could listen to only one music genre for the rest of your life, what would it be?

Probably Country

Do you have any hidden talents or skills that might surprise people?

Not really, other than I have 19 chickens and built them a massive coop (probably too big!).

If you were stranded on a desert island and could only bring three things, what would they be?

Andrea (wife), radio for music, and a lighter.