Chris Brandt ’85 P’14 P’18 says CMC Athletics changed his life
The only thing sweeter than savoring the highest highs of victory as a college athlete? Seeing your son extend those triumphs even further. For Chris Brandt ’85 P’14 P’18, his time as a basketball player and golfer influenced everything about his CMC experience—and beyond.
“From the moment I arrived at the freshman orientation check-in table and met (golf captain) Geoff Russell ’84 through graduation day, my connection to and involvement with CMC Athletics changed my life,” he said. “My deepest memories, most cherished friendships, and greatest mentorship came from fellow athletes and coaches.”
Brandt got his job through a CMS Athletics alumnus, met his wife, DeDe (a Scripps alumna), through that same job, and later sent his children, Christina ’14 and Jonathan ’18, to CMC.
Jonathan also played on the first CMS men’s golf team that won a national championship—a “wow” moment that was even more special for Dad, “the kind of experience you dream about sharing together as a family.”
Supporting CMS Athletics is a cause that is deeply personal, Brandt said. Beyond bleeding maroon and gold—“I’m probably obnoxious in my pride,” he joked of his fandom—Brandt said he’s active with CMS volunteerism and giving because of how much everyone at the College truly cares.
For instance, when longtime men’s golf coach Bim Jollymour retired this year, Brandt and his son helped organize a virtual send-off. It’s the kind of meaningful gesture that can go a long way to show appreciation and support.
“Division III sports are so unique because there really isn’t a lot of financial incentive. You have to love it,” he said. “And because of that, you get everyone’s personal attention and investment, something special that you can carry forward. That definitely happened for me.
“The lessons I learned from CMS Athletics I still use every day.”