When Chris Spensley reflects on his journey, he sees more than personal success—he sees the power of second chances. From a struggling high school student with a 2.0 GPA to a thriving entrepreneur and leader, Chris’s life defies expectations.
Now, through his newly established scholarship at Cleary University, he’s determined to help others do the same.
“I was that kid teachers didn’t expect much from,” Chris says candidly. “I struggled in every classroom. But what they couldn’t see was the drive I had to prove everyone wrong.”
That inner fire carried Chris through the Air Force Reserves, where he discovered his strengths working on complex airplane engines. Later, he pursued his MBA at Cleary University, where, for the first time, he excelled academically. That success sparked a new confidence, fueling his career as a problem-solving entrepreneur and owner of multiple Servpro franchises.
And when COVID-19 shut down the world, Chris didn’t wait for things to get better—he made them better. From the confines of lockdown, he built a groundbreaking certification academy to train restoration professionals, addressing a major gap in blue-collar education. What started as a solution for his own employees became a scalable platform that now empowers workers across the U.S. and Canada.
Chris’s story exemplifies the Cleary mindset: seeing opportunity where others see obstacles. And now, he’s paying it forward.
Through the Chris Spensley Entrepreneurial Scholarship, an annual award, he’s investing in students who remind him of himself—those who may not have perfect grades, but who possess grit, problem solving skills, and a drive to succeed.
“I want to support the students who are like me,” Chris says. “The ones who might not shine in traditional academic settings but have a spark that’s waiting to be ignited.”
For Chris, this is about more than financial support. It’s about offering hope—and a hand up. He plans to personally mentor students, providing the guidance he wishes he’d had when he was starting out.
“Education isn’t just about grades,” Chris insists. “It’s about discovering your unique strengths and having the courage to pursue them relentlessly.”
Chris knows that for many students, financial barriers are only part of the struggle. Emotional support, encouragement, and someone who believes in their potential can make all the difference. His message to these students? Your current situation is not your final destination.
And his message to fellow alumni and potential donors?
“Your support doesn’t just fund education. You’re investing in potential. You’re telling a young person, ‘We believe in you—even when you might not believe in yourself.’”
This is more than a scholarship it’s a lifeline of hope. Chris’s generosity is inspiring a movement to break down barriers and create opportunities for those who need them most.
Will you be next to invest in the next generation of Cleary leaders? Contact Cleary Director of Development Tom Egan at tegan@cleary.edu to find out how.
