Supporting the student experience through development

When he arrived on campus in November for his first day as director of development at Lenoir-Rhyne, Chase Cross brought a surplus of enthusiasm that defines his approach to work and to life.

“I wanted to work in higher ed development because college is such an important phase of life, and I wanted to do it here, to grow the recognition and reputation of LR,” said Cross. “From my first interview for the position, it just clicked. This feels like home to me.”

Likewise, Liz Cox, M.A. ’22, assistant vice president of development, expressed her excitement in welcoming Cross to the advancement team. 

“Chase’s boundless enthusiasm and fresh perspective will be instrumental in connecting donors with opportunities to realize their dreams through philanthropy,” she said. “In turn, those donations will help the university achieve the ambitious goals laid out in the strategic plan to promote excellence for our students.”

A graduate of Appalachian State University, Cross built his record for promoting engagement and fundraising as an undergraduate, beginning as an intern with the Yosef Club, an athletic booster organization similar to the Bears Club at Lenoir-Rhyne. The internship led first to a part-time position as an athletic development assistant. During this time Cross oversaw the Student Yosef Club and facilitated its membership growth from 500 in 2016 to more than 5000 members in 2022. 

Based on this and his other accomplishments as a part-time member of the athletic development team, after graduating in 2020, Cross moved up to a full-time role as assistant director of athletic development. 

“It was hard work, but I Ioved it. I built a great legacy there, and I’d do it again,” said Cross. “However, I wanted new challenges and learning experiences. That’s what makes the job fun!”

In his new position, Cross is eager to bring together the resources that will support all facets of the Lenoir-Rhyne experience – academics, social networking, career development, artistic expression. 

“The students and graduates here are doing amazing things. I’m excited to grow and expand the opportunities available to them,” said Cross.

In his free time, Cross describes himself as a National Park fanatic with the goal of visiting all 63 parks in the system. 

“I’ve been to 10 so far,” he shared. “The furthest one was Haleakalā, but my current favorite is Rocky Mountain.”

The visit to Rocky Mountain National Park was part of a longer trip to see his alma mater play football at the University of Wyoming, connecting with his love of college sports in general and football in particular.  

“Of course, I follow App and now LR, but I enjoy watching all games, no matter who is playing,” Cross said. “Athletics is the front porch of any university, but the academic side is why we’re here. At the end of the day, we’re delivering an educational experience.”