Chris Menschner, MSW, MA, is the director of complex care programs at the Center for Health Care Strategies (CHCS). In this role he oversees CHCS projects focused on the design and implementation of integrated, person-centered, and equitable care and services for adults with a mix of significant physical, behavioral health, and social challenges. His work also focuses on promoting the adoption of trauma-informed care.

Most recently, Chris served as the assistant commissioner for the Division of HIV, STD, and TB Services at the New Jersey Department of Health from 2018-2022. In this role he oversaw the division’s programming and budget, led the development and implementation of New Jersey’s strategic plan to end the HIV epidemic by 2025, as well as the state’s harm reduction expansion strategy.

Prior to joining NJDOH, Chris was a senior program officer at CHCS, where he led a national initiative focused on identifying best practices for implementing trauma-informed approaches in the health care sector from 2015-2018. He also served previously as a senior policy analyst at the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Family Development, where he focused on New Jersey’s Temporary Assistance for Needy Families program.

Chris began his career as a counselor and case manager, working with adults with mental health and substance use issues at community mental health centers in the greater Trenton, NJ region. Subsequently, he has held diverse positions in government and nonprofits, including the Mayor’s Office in Trenton, New Jersey; the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society; and the West Africa AIDS Foundation in Accra, Ghana. Chris earned a master’s degrees in social work and public policy from Monmouth University where he has also served as an adjunct professor of social work. He received his bachelor’s degree in psychology from Rutgers University.

Chris lives in central New Jersey with his wife, son, and three daughters. He enjoys hanging out with his kids above all else. He also enjoys eating at great restaurants with his wife while the kids are home with a babysitter, attending live music events, playing basketball, and passionately rooting for the Philadelphia Phillies, Eagles, and 76ers.