“I Will Forever Be Grateful”: Kristopher Ware’s Journey at UTC

Kristopher Ware, a psychology student at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC), embodies the transformative power of mentorship and self-discovery in academia. With his graduation set for December 13, 2025, Kristopher reflects on a journey that has shaped not only his professional aspirations but his personal growth as well.

Early Passion for Helping Others

From a young age, Ware had an innate desire to help people. “I was always the friend checking on others and giving advice,” he shares. This passion guided him toward a career in mental health, specifically in marriage and family therapy. However, upon transferring from Cumberland University to UTC in 2022, he entered a new world where uncertainty loomed.

The Impact of Engaging Conversations

One of the significant turning points in Kristopher’s academic journey was his participation in Assistant Professor of Sociology Darrell Walsh’s “Marriage and the Family” course. After each class, Ware took the initiative to stay behind for discussions. “The material really stood out to me,” he explains, adding that these interactions fueled his interest in pursuing marriage and family therapy.

Research Opportunities and Running With It

Recognizing Ware’s enthusiasm, Walsh encouraged him to explore research opportunities. Initially hesitant, he was eventually guided by Walsh and Department of Psychology Lecturer Michael Duncan Overton. Kristopher pitched a research idea exploring the reluctance of young Black men to seek mental health services—something he felt deeply passionate about.

“I had one of those moments where I thought, ‘Why am I able to have this opportunity compared to others?’” Ware recalls. This feeling of gratitude and disbelief propelled him into meaningful research, allowing him to explore significant societal issues.

Unraveling Stigmas Surrounding Mental Health

Through qualitative and quantitative research, Kristopher uncovered several themes surrounding the stigma of mental health among Black men. Questions like “As a child, did you feel comfortable talking about your emotions?” unveiled themes of disempowerment and shame. His findings revealed complex layers affecting men’s mental health and raised awareness about the societal pressures they face.

“It wasn’t just about crunching numbers; it was about understanding what participants really meant,” he noted. Collaborating with Overton during this process shaped Kristopher both personally and academically.

Presenting Research on a National Stage

In October, Ware got the opportunity to present his research at the Black Doctoral Network Conference in Los Angeles, an experience that marked a significant milestone for him. Traveling on a plane for the first time, he felt both excitement and anxiety.

“It was special being around other Black scholars doing the same work,” he shared, emphasizing how connecting with peers in similar fields energized him. Despite feeling nervous about presenting, the experience marked a new turn in his academic journey.

Overcoming Fear and Achieving Recognition

At the conference, Kristopher faced his fears head-on. Instead of shying away, he engaged with the judges, answering their questions and taking their feedback seriously. When he learned that he secured third place overall and won the award for most outstanding research, the moment overwhelmed him.

“I broke down in tears,” he said. “It meant so much to me that people recognized the importance of the research.”

Mentorship Through Unique Connections

The relationships Ware built with his professors have been pivotal to his success. “I think the biggest misconception is that students should stay in the background,” he shares, emphasizing that he took the initiative to engage deeply with his professors. His bond with Walsh is particularly strong; Kristopher jokingly remarked that he thinks Walsh will be at his wedding one day.

Dr. Overton also devoted countless hours to helping Kristopher with his research. “I will forever be grateful to him,” Ware said, illustrating the personal impact these mentors have had on his life.

Career Aspirations and Immediate Plans

Having already accepted a position as a care manager with Mental Health Cooperative in Chattanooga, Ware is eager to put his training into practice as he begins his career working with youth and families. He plans to pursue graduate studies while managing his new responsibilities.

“For me, starting out working with youth—a demographic I’m really passionate about—is a huge opportunity,” he reflects, excitedly looking ahead to his future.

Permanent Gratitude for UTC

As he prepares to graduate, Kristopher Ware speaks fondly of his time at UTC. “It’s been one of the biggest blessings in my life,” he says. The connections, the mentorship, and the academic growth have all contributed to his journey, making him not only a better student but a person committed to breaking down the stigma surrounding men’s mental health.

Kristopher’s story is an inspiring example of how transformative experiences in an academic setting can guide individuals toward realizing their potential and making meaningful contributions to society.