Chasten Buttigieg is a dedicated educator, author, and LGBTQ+ advocate whose professional journey reflects a commitment to improving public education and mental health resources. After earning his Bachelor’s degree in theater and global studies from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire, he began his career as a teaching artist with First Stage Children’s Theater in Milwaukee. His passion for education led him to work as a substitute teacher in Chicago and South Bend, ultimately becoming a junior high humanities teacher at the Montessori Academy in Mishawaka, Indiana, where he also taught theater and led a diversity club.

In 2018, Chasten became the First Gentleman of South Bend, Indiana, during his husband Pete Buttigieg’s tenure as mayor. In this role, he championed initiatives focused on arts education and mental health, using his platform to advocate for the importance of these areas in public schools. His commitment to education and community engagement was further exemplified when he joined the Civic Education Team at the South Bend Civic Theatre as the Director of Curriculum, where he developed programs to enhance civic understanding among students.

Chasten gained national recognition during Pete Buttigieg’s 2020 presidential campaign, serving as a spokesperson and social media strategist. He effectively utilized his platform to highlight critical issues such as public school improvement and LGBTQ+ rights, making significant contributions to the campaign’s outreach efforts.

Following the campaign, Chasten continued to advocate for education and mental health, publishing his memoir “I Have Something to Tell You” in 2020. His work remains influential as he engages with communities to promote inclusivity and support for marginalized groups, solidifying his role as a prominent advocate for change in education and beyond.