Owner, Kaleidoscope Videoconferencing – Age: 38

Upon graduating from Rock Bridge High School in 1987, Scott Christianson kept his learning experiences local and attended the University of Missouri-Columbia to obtain a degree in biology and become a research specialist. After graduating, he began employment with Central Methodist College and the MITE Education network.
Christianson attended George Washington University in St. Louis and graduated in 1999 with a master’s degree in education and human development. In 1998 he started up his own business, Kaleidoscope Videoconferencing, which he has owned and operated since.
In addition to his involvement with Friends of Rock Bridge State Park, Leadership Columbia 2003, Metro Rotary and the Columbia Chamber of Commerce, Christianson currently serves as chair of the Boone County Industrial Development Authority, chair of the Columbia Internet Citizens Advisory Group and secretary of the Missouri Distance Learning Association.
“I believe the community needs to increase diversity in the local economy so that more manufacturing and technical jobs are available,” said Christianson. “We should also evaluate changes that might be made in local governance—such as expanding the number of City Council members, providing a stipend for council members, or developing a system for publicly financing local elections—to ensure that we continue to attract strong leaders in the public sector and that all voices contribute.”
Christianson stays active by fly-fishing, camping, biking, hiking and spending time with his nieces and nephews. He and his wife of 12 years enjoy biking the Katy Trail together.