What do a deserted island, a rogue ocean wave, a Purdue gym bag, and Cedarville University have in common? For Chris Sohn, they are all part of an extraordinary life story shaped by God’s providence.
In this episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, Chris Sohn, Chief Financial Officer at Cedarville University, reflects on the experiences that shaped his faith, family, career, and leadership. Chris begins by sharing the joy of becoming a first-time grandfather to Genevieve Grace before taking listeners back to his childhood and his journey to Christ.
Raised in a family without an active Christian faith, Chris first heard the Gospel as a teenager while living in Puerto Rico. Although he recognized his need for a Savior and trusted Christ, he spent years trying to live the Christian life largely on his own. It wasn’t until his early 20s, after moving to California and becoming involved at Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa, that church, biblical teaching, worship, and fellowship began transforming his understanding of what it meant to follow Christ.
Chris also recounts one of the most dramatic experiences of his life: a fishing trip that turned into a fight for survival after a series of massive waves overturned the boat miles off the coast of Puerto Rico. After swimming to a small sandbar with his father and the body of a fellow passenger who had died, Chris discovered his floating Purdue gym bag containing his keys and wallet — an unexpected provision that helped them return home.
Years later, another unexpected turn led Chris from a successful 16-year career with GE to Cedarville. What began as a job posting and a reluctant application eventually became what Chris describes as a clear work of God. Fourteen years later, he continues to serve Cedarville with a commitment to stewardship, people, and the University’s mission.
Chris discusses Cedarville’s financial strength, conservative approach to budgeting, low debt, and — most importantly — the people whose commitment to Christ drives the University forward. Recently named a Dayton Business Journal CFO of the Year, Chris emphasizes that leadership is about far more than managing finances. For him, it means hiring great people, equipping them to succeed, and helping them flourish in their careers, families, churches, and lives.
Listen to this inspiring conversation about faith, adventure, stewardship, leadership, and recognizing God’s hand in the unexpected turns of life.
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