September 2008

Christopher Fink
Brainerd, MN
Class of 2003
Exercise Physiology

Tell us about the work you do: Since my days at The College of St. Scholastica, I have developed a passion for the field of sleep medicine. I started my career in 2005 at the Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis and in 2007 I moved to Brainerd to manage the Brainerd Lakes Sleep Health Center. Our sleep center provides diagnostic testing for anyone suspecting a sleep disorder (whether sleep apnea, restless legs, narcolepsy, etc.).

A source of pride in your life: My family will forever remain a source of pride to me. Watching my siblings continue to grow and succeed is a joy. To see where each of us is today speaks volumes about the role models we had, especially our mother.

Best St. Scholastica memories: There are so many great memories, many of which may never be equaled. At the top of the list is my study abroad in Ireland during my sophomore year. Other memories include working in the athletic training room, Doc C and the cadaver lab, the Grove Apartments, camping in the Valley of Silence, the Reif Run and the inaugural Relay for Life on campus.

Significant influences: Steve Lyons has continued to be a great influence in my life. His smile, laugh and compassion for others clearly depict what is most important in life. Tommy Boone had tremendous impact on me as well; however, it was not until after I graduated from St. Scholastica that I realized just how much he had taught me. Thank you, Tommy. Since my graduation, Dr. Mark Mahowald, Andrea Patterson and Jon Atkinson have been incredibly instrumental toward my professional development.

Greatest professional achievements: I was nominated for the German Nino-Garcia, MD Achievement Award. That award is given to someone who best exemplifies excellence in the performance of a polysomnogram and in patient care during his/her first year. More recently I have been approved to serve a three-year term on the AAST's Continuing Education Credit Accreditation Committee.

Family ties: My cousin, Anita (Heying) Wattier, graduated from the Nursing Program in 2002.

Further education: I have become a registered polysomnographic technologist and plan on enrolling in the master's Management Program at St. Scholastica in the near future.

Philosophy: "If better is possible, then good is not enough." I believe that phrase says it all. Impact of the Benedictine values: The love of learning was firmly instilled in me while at St. Scholastica, and I still carry it with me. I love to teach. You can find me at local trade shows, specialty meetings, high school classes and service organizations. I make a point to try to pass along information and absorb knowledge every chance I get.