Lenoir-Rhyne University Athletics

JuJu Phillips '83 enters his second year as Director of the Bears Club after leading the organization to one of the most successful years in its history during his inaugural campaign.
 
Under Phillips' leadership, the Bears Club exceeded its membership and overall revenue goals in large part due to an 80-day membership campaign, held in conjunction with the 80th anniversary of the Bears Club.
 
In addition to strengthening donor engagement, Phillips and the Bears Club staff hosted several successful fundraising events that support Lenoir-Rhyne's student-athletes and athletic programs.
 
As Director of the Bears Club, Phillips oversees Lenoir-Rhyne's primary athletic fundraising organization. He works closely with Bears Club staff, the Executive Council, and the Bears Club Council to strengthen philanthropic support for the university's 23 varsity sports while cultivating relationships with alumni, donors, corporate partners, and friends of LR Athletics. He also serves as a key ambassador for the university throughout the Hickory community and beyond.
 
In addition to his Bears Club responsibilities, Phillips continues to serve as The Voice of the Bears, calling Lenoir-Rhyne football games on WHKY, WHKY.com, 1290 AM and 102.3 FM.
 
A proud Lenoir-Rhyne alumnus and former student-athlete, Phillips has been connected to Bears football for more than four decades. He has played, covered, or broadcasted LR football in some capacity since 1979 and enjoyed a distinguished broadcasting career covering high school, collegiate, and professional football throughout the Hickory and Charlotte markets from 1983 to 2001.
 
Phillips was named The Voice of the Bears in July 2014 and has served as the play-by-play announcer for Lenoir-Rhyne football ever since. Throughout his broadcasting career, he has become one of the most recognizable voices associated with LR Athletics.
 
Away from athletics, Phillips dedicated more than 20 years to the Hickory Public Schools, where he served students and the community before returning to his alma mater in a full-time leadership role.
 
A lifelong Bear, Phillips' passion for Lenoir-Rhyne and its student-athletes continues to drive the growth of the Bears Club while helping advance the mission of LR Athletics.