Spirit gives back

As this story unfolds, psychology major Zaniya Parks ’25 is participating in Lenoir-Rhyne University history. As the Lenoir-Rhyne Spirit Team captain, she has been cheering the Men’s Basketball Team to victory in the NCAA Division II tournament – most recently in the regional championship, securing the program’s first-ever trip to the NCAA Elite Eight.

“Cheering for basketball is energizing because you’re close to the action and the team. That energy and support can make the difference that leads the guys on the court to a win, especially in a close game,” she said. “When we were playing in the South Atlantic Conference (SAC) Championship game, it was incredible being in the middle of so much excitement and joy. After we won, the players thanked us for keeping the crowd engaged and involved. It matters to them.”

Parks has a special talent for getting people excited about Lenoir-Rhyne and credits her role on the spirit team for building her patience and communication skills. She isn’t just making a difference at Lenoir-Rhyne on the sidelines of athletic events. She has been a resident assistant (RA) since her sophomore year and currently serves as the RA for the student apartments in Hickory House. She also works in the Office of Admission as a Bear of Distinction, an ambassador for the university to prospective students and the general public.

“I love helping people and working with the community, and LR has been the perfect place to follow this passion,” she said. “When I toured LR, the family atmosphere made a strong impression on me, especially the small class sizes and one-on-one time with professors that have led me to success in and out of the classroom.”

One of the most influential connections Parks has cultivated at Lenoir-Rhyne has been with Leah Beth Hubbard, DSL, assistant vice president for admission. Her work with Hubbard and the office of admission awakened an interest in a career in higher education. After she graduates in May 2025, Parks will join the office of admission as a full-time undergraduate admission counselor while she pursues her Master of Arts in human services at LR.

“She was my instructor for a speech communication class, and that relationship has profoundly influenced by experience at LR and my career goals,” shared Parks. “She and I have a lot in common, including a passion for helping others. Everyone deserves to have a personal superhero to highlight our strengths and help us find our path.”

Parks says the scholarship funding she has received from LR has empowered her – and many of the students she works with and supports in the residence halls, admission office and athletic programs.

“Having that support behind us allows us to fully immerse ourselves in campus life and seize the opportunities we’re given,” she explained. “I always tell prospective students on campus tours, ‘College is a you thing. You get out of the experience what you put into it, so I’ve put my all into my four years at LR.’”