Christian Brothers University (CBU) is proud to recognize two outstanding graduates whose lives and careers exemplify the University’s Lasallian mission. The Distinguished Alumnus Award and the Distinguished Young Alumnus Award are presented each year to alums who have achieved notable professional success, contributed to their fields, supported CBU’s mission, and made a lasting difference through service to others.
This year’s honorees, Harry Pratt (‘74) and Chelsea Chandler (‘09), embody CBU’s timeless call to Enter to Learn, Leave to Serve.
“These Distinguished Alumni remind us that a CBU education is about more than earning a degree; it’s about building a life of purpose,” said CBU Interim President Brother Chris. “They have shared their talents with humility and excellence. We are proud to call them members of our CBU family and to honor their accomplishments.”
Distinguished Alumnus Award – Harry Pratt (‘74)
Pivotal Moments
For 50 years, Harry Pratt has been a cornerstone of Allen & Hoshall, serving as President and CEO since 2015. A licensed professional civil engineer in six states, Pratt has directed projects ranging from local infrastructure to large-scale airport developments. His leadership has guided the firm’s nine offices across three states, with more than 100 employees, delivering complex projects with community impact.
Beyond his professional achievements, Pratt has been deeply involved in civic life. As Vice President of the Downtown Memphis chapter of Kiwanis International, he has led handicap ramp construction projects, and he actively engages in neighborhood leadership as President of the Front Street Townhomes Association. His decades-long service to advisory boards at both CBU’s Gadomski School of Engineering and the University of Memphis’ Herff College of Engineering reflects his commitment mentoring to the next generation of engineers.
Enter to Learn
A lifelong Memphian, Pratt earned his Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from Christian Brothers University in 1974 before going on to earn both a Master of Science in Civil Engineering (1980) and an MBA (1983) from the University of Memphis. His CBU education laid the foundation for his remarkable career.
Leave to Serve
Pratt’s professional and community contributions span from instructing future engineers as an adjunct professor to serving on numerous professional boards, including the National Society of Professional Engineers and the American Consulting Engineers Council. His dedication to service – whether through civic engagement, mentorship, or community infrastructure projects – makes him a model of the CBU mission in action.
Distinguished Young Alumna of the Year – Chelsea Chandler (‘09)
Pivotal Moments
Chelsea Chandler has been a familiar face in Memphis for nearly 15 years as an award-winning meteorologist, reporter, and anchor. From early traffic reports to ESPN sideline coverage for the Memphis Tigers, she has built a career delivering both the day’s news and the region’s weather with warmth, accuracy, and heart. She was most recently named anchor of the early edition of Good Morning Memphis on FOX13 at 4:30 a.m.
Chandler’s work has earned her regional acclaim, including honors for Best TV Weatherperson, Best TV Reporter, Best TV Personality, and Best Female Anchor. Her service extends beyond the newsroom, with decades of volunteerism in mental health awareness, suicide prevention, and the American Cancer Society – work recognized by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee with the state’s highest civilian honor, the Colonel Aide de Camp.
Enter to Learn
Chandler earned her degree in Psychology from Christian Brothers University, where she was an honor student and member of Zeta Tau Alpha. CBU fostered her love of learning, service, and community – values that continue to guide her career. She later pursued studies in Meteorology at Penn State University and Geosciences at Mississippi State University.
Leave to Serve
Chandler was crowned Miss Tennessee in 2012 and has since leveraged her public platform to raise awareness, mobilize charitable giving, and celebrate her community – including raising over $160,000 for the YMCA of Memphis and the Mid-South through Dancing with the Stars Memphis. Whether hosting Making Strides Against Breast Cancer, mentoring students, or sharing uplifting stories, she embodies the Lasallian commitment to serve with compassion.
The awards will be presented during CBU’s Alumni Weekend, September 19 and 20.
