JuJu Phillips '83 was appointed as the new Director of the Bears Club in July of 2025. A proud alumnus and former LR student-athlete, Phillips brings a lifetime of Bear pride and passion to the role.
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In this position, Phillips serves as the leader of LR's primary fundraising arm and works 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 is serve as a key ambassador for the university throughout the Hickory area and beyond.
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In addition to his Bears Club duties, Phillips continues 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.
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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.
