Krissi Vandenberg (B.S.’96, M.S.’07) arrived on VCU’s campus with the intention of becoming a veterinarian. As she settled on campus and became entrenched in the local community, her love for animals — paired with her activist mindset — would lead her down an adjacent path. Soon after graduating from VCU with her Bachelor’s of Science in biology, she began volunteering with Vegan Action, an organization focused on improving animal welfare, environmental impact, and human health through veganism. (The organization also certifies qualifying vegan products to aid consumer purchasing.) Eventually, Vandenberg would take a leadership role within the organization. 

Alongside her work, Vandenberg returned to VCU and pursued a Master’s of Science in sociology, synthesizing her background in science with the humanities. She served as a graduate teaching assistant during her studies before serving as an adjunct professor for two years following her degree completion.

What drew you to VCU to initially study biology? What inspired you to return to VCU to pursue a Master’s Degree in sociology?

I grew up in Northern Virginia and wanted to stay in-state while attending a university in an urban environment. VCU stood out as the right fit, and after hearing strong recommendations from several students already enrolled, I felt confident in my decision to attend.

I initially planned to pursue a career in veterinary medicine with my biology degree. However, during my undergraduate studies, I became deeply involved in community activism, which led me to move to Northern California to engage with the Bay Area’s activist community. After two years, I returned to Richmond to pursue graduate studies at VCU. Sociology was a natural fit, allowing me to explore issues related to race, gender, socioeconomic inequality, and sexuality — areas that aligned closely with my passion for community engagement and education.

Was there a faculty member who made a particular impact on your education and/or career journey? How so?

During my graduate studies, two professors made a significant impact on me both academically and personally. David Bromley, Ph.D., former professor of sociology and religious studies, and Sarah Jane Brubaker, Ph.D., affiliate professor in the Department of Gender, Sexuality and Women's Studies, were incredibly supportive of my academic interests and helped me find a focus for my thesis research. 

Dr. Brubaker, in particular, became an important mentor. In addition to serving on my thesis committee, she was the first person to ask me, “Have you ever thought about teaching?” That simple question gave me the confidence to consider a path I had not previously envisioned. I had the opportunity to serve as a graduate teaching assistant and later became an adjunct professor at VCU after completing my master's degree program.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time at VCU? Tell us about it.

While I truly value my academic experience and successes, it was the broader environment at VCU that had the greatest impact on me. The campus provided opportunities to connect with folks from diverse backgrounds and perspectives. I became actively involved in community organizations such as Food Not Bombs, the Fan Free Clinic, volunteering at the campus’ Sexual Assault Resource Center, and I also co-founded a student animal rights organization. These experiences played a significant role in shaping who I am today.

Tell us about your role as executive director at Vegan Action/The Vegan Awareness Foundation. What does your day-to-day look like?

As executive director, I oversee the organization’s certification and outreach program development, operations, and strategic initiatives. My day-to-day work includes meetings with local community organizers and vegan product manufacturers as well as collaborating with our team on outreach and education efforts. I also focus on organizational development, partnerships, and advancing our mission to promote veganism and support the growth of vegan products in the marketplace.

How did the curriculum in the Department of Biology and the Department of Sociology prepare you for your professional work?

My academic experience provided a strong interdisciplinary foundation that continues to inform my work. As an undergraduate, I had the opportunity to work with Charles Blem, Ph.D., professor emeritus of herpetology and ornithology, on an independent study. This experience gave me hands-on training in research methods, data analysis, and scientific writing. Our work on finch population trends in Virginia was ultimately published in The Raven: The Journal of the Virginia Society of Ornithology.

During my graduate studies in sociology, I developed critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the intersectionality of social systems, ethics, and consumer behavior. This perspective has been invaluable in my role, particularly in understanding the cultural and ethical motivations behind veganism, and effectively communicating with diverse audiences. 

What’s your why?

My “why” is rooted in a deep commitment to compassion for all. I am driven to spend my time working to make the world a better place for animals and people while considering the impacts of our daily choices on the environment. As a dedicated activist, I strive to lead with active kindness by encouraging others to reflect on their perspectives and consider how their actions can contribute to positive change.