< PreviousNext > Back to Staff Main Page

Kris L. Connolly, MS
Manager, Asheville Graduate Program

Kris is the founding Manager of the CooperRiis Graduate Program in Asheville, N.C., having worked with the Executive Director to open this extended part of the CooperRiis community early in 2004 in Asheville utilizing homes and apartments.  Since then he has helped numerous residents ‘graduating’ from the ‘farm’ to move toward independent living. He lives nearby and provides support to the residents as they seek employment, education, community service and recreational opportunities.  Kris coordinates psychiatric and psychological services and coaches residents in their continued recovery by encouraging their sustained achievement of their goals.

Prior to joining the CooperRiis Graduate Program, Kris was employed in Michigan for a non-profit organization as in-home family counselor working with high-risk teens and their parents or caregivers.  He also facilitated parenting workshops.

Kris is married to Shar Connolly, Senior CooperRiis Recovery Coach/Counselor and together they have three grown children and two grandchildren.

Kris Connolly has a degree in Business Administration from Western Michigan University and a Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from California Lutheran University.