HICKORY, N.C. -- Lenoir-Rhyne University is excited to announce the appointment of JuJu Phillips '83 as the new Director of the Bears Club. A proud alumnus and former LR student-athlete, Phillips brings a lifetime of Bear pride and passion to the role.
 
"I'm beyond excited and honored for this opportunity," said Phillips. "LR has always held a special place in my heart. I want to thank Vice President for Athletics Daron Montgomery, Andy Anderson [Assistant Vice President for Development], and others who have put their trust in me. I am grateful to be able to lead a wonderful group of supporters in the Bears Club."
 
In this position, Phillips will serve as the leader of LR's primary fundraising arm and work collaboratively with fellow Bears Club staff members as well as the Bears Club executive council and full Bears Club board to strengthen support for LR's varsity and club sports. He will also serve as a key ambassador for the university throughout the Hickory area and beyond.
 
"JuJu is one of LR's most recognizable supporters and brings a unique ability to foster relationships with current Bears Club members and prospective donors," said Montgomery. "The Director of the Bears Club is a highly visible member of the Lenoir-Rhyne community as well as the greater Hickory and Unifour region. JuJu will serve LR well in this role, and his passion for Lenoir-Rhyne is unmatched."
 
Phillips will also continue to serve as The Voice of the Bears for fans who listen via WHKY at WHKY.com or on 1290 AM and 102.3 FM on football Saturdays.
 
"We could not be more excited to welcome JuJu as the new Director of the Bears Club!" said Matt Winters '06, President of the Bears Club. "JuJu brings a contagious energy, a deep love for college athletics, and a bold vision that aligns perfectly with where we're headed. This is a game-changing moment for our student-athletes, our supporters, and the future of Lenoir-Rhyne Athletics. The Bears Club is in great hands, and the best is yet to come!"
 
Phillips has played, covered, and broadcasted LR Football games in some form or fashion since 1979 and was a sports broadcaster of high school, college and professional football in Hickory and Charlotte from 1983 to 2001. Phillips was promoted to The Voice of the Bears in July of 2014 and has been play-by-play voice of LR football ever since. He also spent over 20 years in the Hickory City Public School System.
 
About the Bears Club
The Bears Club is Lenoir-Rhyne University's official athletic fundraising organization, supporting all 23 varsity sports through philanthropic giving, donor engagement, and events. The generosity of alumni, parents, and friends of the university directly benefits the Lenoir-Rhyne student-athlete experience.

FOLLOW THE BEARS CLUB ON ... Twitter (@LRBearsClub), Facebook (LRBearsClub), and Instagram (@lrbearsclub)