Simple man with big dreams
A casual young man who dreamed of something bigger; something better. He believed he could and he did.
From the bottom to the top
One of the success stories not being talked about. There is strength in knowing hard work does pay off, even when a person does not know the way. Kris Hatcher, EdD is a great example. He is the first in his family to become a college student and he trailblazed his own way through and earned the highest form of education there is, a doctorate in Educational Leadership and Administration from FSU.
Dr. Kris Hatcher in his office on GCSC campus.
The journey
It took him a little over 15 years of dedication to achieve 4 degrees, but he did it. February 2022 is a year to be celebrated, for sure. A huge victory had been had, but the work is not yet done for Kris Hatcher.
What’s next?
Time to find work, of course. His education led him to Polk State College in Winter Haven, FL taking him away from the town he grew up in. He packed up his wife of 17 years and his two children to take on this new brave adventure. It didn’t work out, but it was still brave.
What now?
In 2023 they moved back to Panama City, FL to pursue another business opportunity. Gulf Coast State College opened up a position as Director of the TRIO programs. His role in financial aid made him a great candidate for the job. His college family background helped create a passion to help first generation students. TRIO is a good place to be to develop other students and students to be.
More rewarding
According to Kris, TRIO is an “entirely different dynamic as for as what you encounter in day to day and students that you are interreacting with.” They are both in the business to help students, but “Trio is more rewarding” Kris says, because they come back to tell him their thankful for his assistance with their growth. Working with students on navigating their way to success possibly stems from his personal experiences.
Trio Logo
After office hours
Planning and executing events is part of the job, but it is still extra and it shouldn’t be discounted. They do it to inform potential students the benefits TRIO has offer and to get current students more involved to get the most of their college career. Some of these events happen on evenings and weekends. He is committed to do his best at everything he does.
Recognized for his hard work
His passion is paying off. In 2025 he was given “Our Heart of Campus Award Recipient” because he “profoundly influences student success” GCSC. A great honor for his dedication and hard work.
Image from Facebook GCSC Foundation
It doesn’t stop there
His commitment to his community is extraordinary. On top of having a family, he still makes time to give. He is the board of directors for Girls Inc and works with the Chamber of Commerce, alongside showing up for his kids extracurricular activities. This man knows no bounds. He is quite impressive.
