Staff Spotlight: Chrissy Fritzen

My name is Christine Lynn Wenos Fritzen and I am the Front Desk Administrative Assistant at Annunciation. 
 
I was born in Moline, IL (Quad Cities) and grew up in Rhinelander, WI.  I attended Rhinelander High School and then went to St Mary's University of MN where I received a BA in Theater Arts.
 
My first job after college was a Dance Teacher with Stage Coach Theater Co and Dancersize Kids.
 
We have a strong connection to Annunciation.  My family's connection to the community is what drew me here in the first place. And now my connection with the community is what keeps me going! The people I work with, the students that bring joy and laughter to the building, the extended community - this is what breathes life into my days! 
 
My husband, Nick, and I have been married for 21 years this past July. Nick is an Annunciation Alum. We have two daughters: Samantha, 17, a senior this fall at AHA, and Jessica, 15, a sophomore this fall at AHA. Both girls are also Annunciation Alumni!
 
My main hobby is singing! I've been singing, cantoring, working in music ministry for about 30 years. I have also been a dance teacher for 30+ years - now just for fun when I hear a good beat! I enjoy the outdoors whenever I can - camping, biking, walks, swimming, skiing. 
 
My dream travel destination is Hawaii - I have a strong Hawaiian connection through a conference I've worked for 12 years. Their culture, their music, their hospitality has made a wonderful impact on my life. So, some day I would love to visit my aunt and my chosen Ohana there.
 
A few unique things about me:  I am the oldest of 6 children. I skied for a water-ski team in high school and college (I was the 3rd / top layer of the pyramid), I danced on the dance line for the MN Lynx in their inaugural season, I've sung at Carnegie Hall twice (once with Fr. Liam Lawton from Ireland, once with John Angotti), I have sung in the recording studio with both Marty Haugen and David Haas, I have the privilege of being on a team that works with youth and liturgical composers / professionals at a liturgical conference (One Call Institute), and in a previous job I drove 5 different types of forklifts.
 
My “bucket list” includes travel, spending time with my family, house projects, and enjoying great food!  My favorite food is Pizza from Haven Pizza from my hometown and any kind of pasta.
 
When I was in school, my favorite subjects were music, choir, band, and English.
 
Working at Annunciation brings me joy!