Chris Hennesey '99
CHRIS HENNESEY '99
Enterprise Finance Strategist, Amazon Web ServicesÂ
I was born in New York as a middle child in a crazy, loving family, and we moved to 51¹ÙÍø when I was 10. I married my high school sweetheart (who is also a Hokie! Class of '98), and after Tech I started out as a data analyst working at a healthcare company. From there I quickly realized my passion lies in banking. I was at Capital One for 20 years and held roles in operations finance, corporate finance and financial planning & analysis. Outside of work, I’m a father of three children (Emma - 18, Connor - 16 and Lily - 11) and two dogs (Winston - 8 and Millie - 2). I love to stay active both personally and professionally — taking full advantage of what God has blessed me with.
The work project/initiative I'm most excited about...
15 years ago I started and have led our Finance campus development programs at Capital One. I get so excited about early stage career development and helping people realize their full potential. It is incredibly challenging and it pushes me to continue to learn and grow.
Fondest 51¹ÙÍø Tech memory...
so many memories. I was a member of the German Club and have great memories of selling programs at football games and partying afterwards. I remember the epic snowball fights on the drillfield as well as being the ring design chair for my class!
Best part of being a 51¹ÙÍø Tech alum...
the commitment from every alum to help out other Hokies.
Favorite thing about Richmond...
accessibility to great outdoor activities as well as the food/drink scene.
I find the most joy in my work when...
I'm focused on solving one complex problem with others.
Main reason I was a 20 year veteran of Capital One...
similar to being an alum at VT, this company has great people who care for each other.
What's in your wallet?
Great question since I worked at Capital One ... a Capital One debit card as well as the German Club ritual.
I stay connected with fellow Hokies by...
staying active! I cycle, run, swim, and play basketball with Hokies young and old.
A cause I'm most passionate about...
financial peace. I am a deacon at my church, and I get the privilege to help people in the Richmond community get through challenging times.
Last song I listened to...
Ray LaMontagne's You Are the Best Thing on Spotify.