Modeling Generosity

At one of High Point University’s campus kiosks, Chris Quick is a mentor who brightens students’ day.

Chris Quick, also lovingly referred to by many as “boss man,” is a campus celebrity. His infectious smile and signature fist bump are sure to make your day brighter.

Quick is a U.S. Army veteran from High Point, North Carolina, and began working at HPU in 2013. Most students know Quick from the kiosk by the Stout School of Education, where he gives out snacks and drinks to students on their way to class. He also works with HPU athletes in the Fuel Zones, weight rooms used by 500 students a day.

Wherever he is, he takes care of students by making sure they are nourished with food and positivity.

Whether he’s crossing the street to give someone a water as they rush to class, loading up a student’s car with snacks for their long trip home or praying over an upcoming exam — Quick always goes the extra mile to show students he cares.

And students like Ashton Kajcienski, ’22, go out of their way to see him.

“When I first interacted with Chris, he had the biggest smile on his face telling me to have a good day,” she says. “You could tell that he genuinely meant it. I would make special trips out of my way to go see Chris — his joy was that infectious.”

A Powerful Purpose

HPU has several kiosks located around campus. They model generosity by offering complimentary snacks, drinks and more that students can grab on their way to class.

“Every student needs to start their day off great. It’s hard to start the day if they’re hungry or have other things on their mind,” says Quick.

By coming to work with a positive attitude, he shows students that every day, they can “Choose to Be Extraordinary.” When students see him jumping around with enthusiasm and sharing messages of encouragement, they know they have everything they need to succeed.

“Before my morning Spanish class, I stop by the kiosk,” says Charles Crowell, ’24. “Those 7:50 a.m. classes can be a pain to wake up for, but after talking to Chris, I’m in a way better mood.

Motivating students is his favorite part of the job.

“I know students have a lot going on, and some are tired, so motivating them every morning is my favorite thing about working with the students,” says Quick.

A Legacy of Positivity

Even before Quick joined HPU, he knew the campus fostered positivity. His family has more than 100 years of service dedicated to HPU combined.

His daughters Kristy, Lakisha and Sharida Norton have all worked in the Café. Lakisha works behind the scenes making sure students are taken care of. Sharida worked the sandwich station, and Kristy works the omelet station where she knows students’ “usual.” Their mother Kathy Norton, known as “Miss. Kathy,” is beloved by students and greets them when they visit HPU’s Silver Line Diner. Their attraction to HPU all started with Kathy’s mother Geraldine Norton, who worked with HPU’s Campus Enhancement team for 20 years.

Quick says that it was his family who got him interested in HPU.

“I heard how much fun they were having and about what a great place High Point University is from them,” he says.

Serving More Than Snacks

While Quick works in HPU Dining, his role for students is that of a mentor. He’s a counselor, motivator, prayer partner and friend.

“I’ll pray with students if they have an exam coming up. I counsel and do a lot of things. I love my students,” says Quick.

Quick is known across campus for exchanging his signature gesture — the “One Love” sign, but he’s also known for living out the meaning behind it. Making sure that everyone feels like they are a part of the HPU family is important to him. He wants to make everyone feel special.

HPU students can always look to Quick to find someone who cares.

“Chris embodies what it means to show love,” says Seth Hatherly, ’20, ’22. “He is a blessing to HPU.”

This story is featured in the Fall 2022 edition of the HPU Magazine.