Learn about our members

Professional Associates (PA) is a community of nearly 50 educators, scientists, innovators, business leaders, policymakers, and professionals who bring their real-world experience to support Fort Lewis College. Members share a commitment to strengthening student learning, enriching faculty teaching, and advancing community partnerships across the Four Corners.

Expertise across disciplines

PA members represent seven core areas of expertise:

  • Medicine, public health, and life sciences
  • Engineering, physical sciences, and technology
  • Environmental science and ecology
  • Education, sociology, and community development
  • Arts, communication, and humanities
  • Leadership, strategy, and organizational management
  • Law, policy, and government service

This breadth of knowledge allows PA members to serve as guest lecturers, mentors, advisors, and collaborators—bringing valuable insight to classrooms, academic programs, and community initiatives.

History and purpose

Professional Associates was established in 1999 by President Kendall Blanchard as a strategic advisory group. Since then, its role has expanded to include direct support for students, faculty, and community programming—while maintaining a strong advisory partnership with college leadership.

Meet our members

Each member brings a unique background and perspective to Fort Lewis College. Browse the directory below to explore individual bios, professional experience, and areas of expertise.

Charles Fredrick

cpfred@gmail.com

Profession: Certified Public Accountant | Business Consultant

Education

  • 1977, BA, Business and Accounting, Fort Lewis College (Summa Cum Laude)
  • 1978, Licensed CPA

Career Highlights

Charles (Chuck) Fredrick is the Managing Owner of FredrickZink & Associates, PC, CPA’s with over four decades of experience in tax, audit, and business advisory services. Chuck has built a robust practice providing comprehensive consulting to a diverse portfolio of businesses in the Four Corners area - including construction contractors, retail operations, and service industries.

In addition to his professional practice, Chuck has a longstanding commitment to community service. His contributions include serving on the Fort Lewis College School of Business Advisory Council (1985–1986, 2018–present) and actively participating in the Fort Lewis College Professional Associates since 2017. Locally, he has lent his expertise to the City of Durango through roles on the Financial Advisory and Budget Review Committee (1982–1991, 1993–2000; Chair 1986–1991) and as a member of the Retirement Board (1990–2010). His leadership extends to regional civic organizations, having held key positions with the Community Foundation Serving Southwest Colorado, Volunteers of America’s Southwest Safehouse, Trout Unlimited’s Five Rivers Chapter, the Durango Youth Soccer Association (including a term as President), the Durango Independent Film Festival, and the Homebuilders Association of Southwest Colorado.

Chuck’s professional achievements and active community involvement underscore his commitment to financial excellence and civic engagement, making him a valued member of the Fort Lewis College Professional Associates.