Breaking Barriers: Chris Fifty's Journey to Understanding the Brain

March is national Brain Injury Awareness Month, which recognizes and advocates for the millions of Americans affected by brain injury. One graduate embodying this mission is neuropsychology alumnus Chris Fifty, who published and presented research about traumatic brain injuries as a student at UNH Manchester and now works as a case manager at Greater Nashua Mental Health.

Finding a New Path

For Chris, the journey started with a moment of deep reflection. A close friend’s struggle with substance use disorder caused him to pause and rethink everything. 

"A friend’s battle with substance use disorder caused me to re-evaluate the paradigm through which I see the world," he says. 

This turning point led Chris to leave a corporate operations career in search of something more meaningful. Growing up with two educators, Chris knew education could provide the clarity he sought. After spending time reflecting—including a period in a Buddhist monastery—he decided to return to school. A deep curiosity about why we do what we do led him to the neuropsychology program at UNH Manchester.

"Neuropsychology, or the biological underpinnings of why we act the way we do, was what I felt I wanted to better understand," Chris says. 

Learning Beyond the Classroom

Chris didn’t just attend classes—he immersed himself in hands-on research and learning. 

"I’m extremely grateful to the faculty of UNH for every opportunity that I’ve been given," he says, citing Dr. John Sparrow and Dr. Daniel Seichepine as playing pivotal roles in guiding his academic journey.

Chris worked on a research team funded by the National Institutes of Health, studying the effects of multiple mild traumatic brain injuries. His hard work didn’t stop there. Alongside two other students, he co-authored a research project titled, “Providing a Definition of Head Injuries Increases Reported Trauma in Women Between 30 and 50.” He presented this project at the 2023 International Neuropsychological Society conference in San Diego—a huge milestone showcasing his dedication and expertise.

Advice for Future Wildcats

For anyone considering UNH Manchester, Chris has simple but powerful advice: You’ve got time. Returning to academia at 33 years old, Chris proves that there’s no set timeline for pursuing your passions. Chris also reminds us that true success comes from following what brings you joy, not from checking off society’s boxes.

"Do what you love for as long as you love it," he says. 

Looking Ahead

Chris works as a case manager at Greater Nashua Mental Health, where he provides compassionate care and advocates for vulnerable populations. His story continues to inspire—showing how education, determination and a passion for understanding the human mind can lead to a fulfilling career making a real impact.

As we recognize Brain Injury Awareness Month, let’s celebrate stories like Chris Fifty’s—stories of growth, resilience and the incredible journeys that begin at UNH Manchester.

Interested in the human brain and behavior? Learn more about our neuropsychology and psychology programs.