Turning a Passion into a Career

By Chris Conroy ’04, B.A. in Visual Communication Owner, Conroy Coatings & Restoration

I’ve always been fascinated by old buildings; everything about them – from the way they look to the way they feel as you walk through them – has captivated me ever since I was a child. It’s probably not surprising then to learn that having an opportunity to work on and in these historic structures has been a lifelong dream. For me, it’s a dream that Ohio Dominican helped me achieve.

Chris Conroy ’04 at a job site at St. Mary Catholic Church in Delaware, Ohio in fall 2019.

Throughout my time at ODU, my art professors and advisors provided me with abundant knowledge, resources, and support that I needed to not just earn a degree, but to start my own architectural restoration company. What started as an ambitious idea a little more than a decade ago has now grown to a seven-person operation, working on dozens of projects throughout Central Ohio.

Even 15 years after my graduation, I still reflect on the Dominican education I received. It taught me how to approach problems, how to think critically, and how to pursue and nurture ideas in a way that they turn into something tangible. My education helped to provide a foundation that continues to serve me well today.

Because of my experience at ODU, I now have the opportunity to take something that is in disrepair, and restore it to its original beauty. For me, it’s my way of honoring the skills of craftsmen from decades or even centuries ago. A few years ago, I had the opportunity to return to campus to help restore various areas in and around Erskine and Hamilton Halls. I can vividly recall my colleagues joking with me at the time that I seemed way too happy and excited to be at work. The truth is that I wasn’t at work, I was home.

ODU helped me connect my passion for architectural restoration with my purpose of running a business and supporting my family. For this, I am extremely grateful.