Chris Harkins serves as Executive Director for Strategic Projects and Initiatives in Michigan State University Finance. In this role, Chris interacts across all aspects of the University, working to develop financial and programmatic coordination for the largest initiatives at the University. Prior to his work at MSU, Chris Harkins served as Budget Director for the State of Michigan. During that time, Harkins served as a member of Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s Cabinet and was responsible for coordinating all aspects of the state’s $82 billion budget and oversaw the Budget Development Offices, Office of Financial Management, Office of Internal Audit Services, the Center for Educational Performance and Information, and the Statewide Integrated Governmental Management Applications (SIGMA) Organization.
Prior to his appointment as State Budget Director, Harkins served as Director of the Michigan Senate Fiscal Agency where he was responsible for managing the non-partisan Fiscal Agency, its staff, and ensuring that the informational and fiscal needs of the members of the Michigan Senate, and public, were met. Harkins has also worked at Jackson National Life, the Michigan Department of Technology, Management and Budget and for the Michigan House of Representatives and Senate.
Chris holds a B.A. in International Relations from Michigan State University and a Masters in Community and Economic Development from the Pennsylvania State University and resides in Lansing with his wife and son. Chris Harkins was appointed by the Lansing City Council to the Board of Water & Light Board of Commissioners on January 27, 2025 and his term expires on June 30, 2028.