Christine Pannier Chytraus '77 

BS Nursing

Christine Pannier Chytraus graduated from Westminster College in 1977 with a B.S. in Nursing. She is currently the Program Manager for Fostering Healthy Children, a statewide program in Utah that provides health care case management for children in out-of-home placement. Chris and the program’s staff ensure that the health care needs of children in foster care are met. The program ensures that the children receive screenings, comprehensive medical, dental, and mental health exams, and follow-up services.

In 1991, Chris’s husband Jeffery passed away from heart disease. Chris found plenty of places to go for emotional support; however, she encountered no such option for her two young children, Megan and Christopher. Chris learned of a place in Portland, Oregon, where children could receive grief support in ways specific to their age. After visiting the center and receiving training, Chris and Nancy Reiser, a local child therapist, created The Sharing Place in Salt Lake City.
The non-profit organization located at 1695 E. 3300 South aids individuals of all ages through group support. The Sharing Place provides a safe and caring environment for grieving children, teens and their families to share their feelings about their loss. Chris, Nancy and the others at The Sharing Place help those grieving in Utah to share their feelings while healing themselves.

In addition to her work at Fostering Healthy Children and the Sharing Place, Chris serves on the Governor’s Child Abuse Advisory Council. She also was campaign director for the Children’s Campaign of Utah, a program of the nonprofit advocacy group Utah Children whose mission was to draft a platform of children's issues by which voters could measure and support candidates for political office. Chris has also serves on Westminster College’s Alumni Board and has been a consistent donor to the college since 1987.