Chasten Buttigieg

Chasten James Glezman Buttigieg was born on June 23, 1989, in Traverse City, Michigan. Growing up as the youngest of three brothers in a conservative Catholic family, he developed an early interest in education and advocacy. He attended Northwestern Michigan College before earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in theater and global studies from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire in 2014. Following his undergraduate studies, Buttigieg pursued a Master of Education degree from DePaul University, which he completed in 2017. During this period, he also gained experience as a teaching artist for First Stage Children’s Theater in Milwaukee and as a substitute teacher in Chicago and South Bend public schools.

Buttigieg’s career progressed as he became a junior high humanities teacher at the Montessori Academy in Mishawaka, Indiana, in fall 2017. He also took on roles teaching theater and running a diversity club, demonstrating his commitment to fostering inclusive and enriching educational environments. His public profile grew significantly as the husband of Pete Buttigieg, the former U.S. Secretary of Transportation. He served as a prominent advisor, spokesperson, and social media campaigner during his husband’s 2020 presidential campaign, advocating for causes such as improving public schools, expanding access to arts education, and prioritizing mental health.

In September 2020, Buttigieg published his debut memoir, “I Have Something to Tell You,” which became a New York Times bestseller. He further expanded his literary work with a young adult adaptation of his memoir in 2023, and a children’s picture book, “Papa’s Coming Home,” in 2025, which also achieved New York Times bestseller status. Beyond his literary achievements, Buttigieg has continued his advocacy work, including serving as a Harvard Institute of Politics Fellow in fall 2020. He remains a dedicated educator, author, and an influential voice for LGBTQ+ rights.