For those fortunate enough to have known Chris Hamsher, you might remember his carefully manicured hair or have flashbacks to his practical jokes and comical stories that have become legends. And it probably won’t surprise you to learn that in an identity project designed for his 8th graders, he chose empathy as his strongest character trait. In addition to his support of individuals, he also found unique ways to advocate for causes close to his heart. During October, Chris combined his desire to help others with his flair for fashion by frequently sporting pink pants in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month. To continue this tradition, we invite you to wear pink pants (or just pink, if you aren’t as fashionably brave as Chris was) on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.
Donations collected on that day will go to the scholarship created in his memory .
Chris loved connecting with people, getting to know every and any one he could. He had the ability to make you feel like a best friend from the very start. Before his passing he had taken up photography and would have long conversations with strangers and then ask to take their photo, capturing them in the element of which they conversed. He relished listening to their stories, hearing their perspectives and sharing his. He approached every conversation as a teachable moment. So, in addition to pink pants, please spend your day making connections, sending a postcard, or giving to someone in need…
LEAD WITH LOVE.