DEDICATION
Christopher Brittingham is in his first year at Susquehanna University, but giving back has been part of his life for years. A 2026 graduate of Notre Dame High School, he logged more than 2,000 service hours during his time in NJROTC, leading his unit in community service. Now, as a political science major on a pre-law path, he’s finding ways to get involved on campus while carrying those experiences with him. “The Mohawk Valley is more than just where I live—it’s my home and the foundation of my family’s life.”
Christopher grew up watching family members and mentors give their time to others. Their example helped him understand that being part of a community meant taking responsibility for it, too. “Growing up, I learned that community isn’t just a place where you reside—it’s something you actively build.” Those early lessons shaped how he approached leadership in high school and continue to influence the choices he’s making as a college freshman.
His commitment to service earned recognition from County Executive Anthony Picente, who honored Christopher with an official day on March 21. He also received the Students Inside Albany award, which gave him the opportunity to shadow New York State Assemblywoman Marianne Buttenschon at the State Capitol. Along with his work through NJROTC, that experience is part of the background he brings to his studies and his interest in a career helping families.
At Susquehanna, Christopher serves as a Student Ambassador and supports Best Buddies, an organization that creates opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. He also helps plan community service initiatives through Susquehanna University Student Activities and is a member of the university’s Pre-law Society. College has given him a new community to contribute to, and he’s making service part of his life there from the start.
Supporting young people and helping families build stability are especially important to Christopher. He plans to pursue a career in family law, connecting his interest in the legal profession with the needs he cares about. He wants young people to have dependable role models, access to resources and opportunities to succeed. “When we invest in our youth and strengthen families, the entire community thrives.”
The moments that stay with him are often about seeing a young person begin to feel more confident because someone has taken an interest in them. He describes the importance of “watching their confidence grow when they realize someone truly believes in them and supports their journey.” That encouragement is something he values both in the example set by his own mentors and in what he hopes to offer others.
Being involved has also helped Christopher get to know people across the Mohawk Valley whom he might not otherwise have met. Those connections have given him perspective, purpose and a greater appreciation for the place where he grew up. “Above all, it continually reminds me of the strength, resilience, and potential present right here in our area.” As he begins working toward his future, those experiences remain part of what motivates him.
For anyone looking for a way to help, Christopher offers straightforward advice. “My advice is simple: Start small and start where your passion lies.” That could mean mentoring a young person, helping at a food pantry or joining a neighborhood cleanup. “You don’t need a huge budget or a massive time commitment to make an impact.” His encouragement is to find something that matters to you and take that first step. There are different ways to contribute, and choosing something you care about gives you a place to begin. He believes there is value in continuing to show up, even when the contribution seems modest. “Small, consistent efforts create lasting change.”
This Thanksgiving, Christopher is especially grateful for good health and the love and support of his family and friends. In a year that has taken him from high school graduation to his first semester of college, he’s carrying their example into a new chapter. “Watching my family and mentors dedicate their time and energy to helping others taught me that true leadership is rooted in service.”
