March 21, 2007
FARMVILLE, Va. -- Longwood University Associate Vice President for Development and Alumni Relations Scott Rash has announced the recent appointment of Chris Neal as Assistant Director of Development for Intercollegiate Athletics. Neal is a 2005 graduate of Longwood, earning a bachelor of science in business administration with a marketing concentration. He has been completing a marketing and promotions internship at Virginia Commonwealth University since last August while working toward a master of science in sports leadership from VCU’s SportsCenter graduate program. One of Neal’s main responsibilities at Longwood will be to oversee the Lancer Club, an organization that works to engage alumni and friends in the support of Longwood Intercollegiate Athletics.
“We are thrilled to add Chris’ energy, enthusiasm and passion for Longwood to our advancement efforts,” said Rash. “The Lancer Club continues to play an integral role in our transition to Division I Athletics and I am confident that with Chris and Troy at the helm of our athletic fundraising, we will be able to provide our student-athletes an experience they will cherish for a lifetime.”
“The Lancer Club is a critical component to the success of Longwood Athletics,” added Longwood interim Director of Athletics Troy Austin. “It is the support of the Lancer Club members that helps to allow student-athletes to compete at the highest level of college athletics while earning a degree from an outstanding institution.”
At VCU, Neal assisted the Director of Student Promotions in marketing and promoting university athletic programs to increase student attendance and interest in athletic events. In doing so, he coordinated in-game promotions as well as halftime contests and giveaways. Neal also acted as a liaison between sponsors and youth groups for the Rams Assisting Youth program for disadvantaged youth in the Richmond area, facilitated special events such as the 2006 Charles Barkley Golf Invitational and the 2006 International Basketball Showcase, while providing assistance in the ticket office as well.
“I am honored and excited about the opportunity to come back to Longwood University as the new Assistant Director of Development for Intercollegiate Athletics,” commented Neal. “My experience as a student at Longwood was one that I will cherish forever, and I am sure that my time here as a staff member will be equally as fulfilling. I understand the importance of the Lancer Club and the role it plays in our transition to Division I Athletics. Through my work, I will exude my passion for my alma mater, as well as intercollegiate sports, and do my part in Leading The Charge!”
Neal has also worked as a leasing consultant for Beacon Residential Management in Richmond while marketing the Bramblewood Estates community from 2005-06, and interned at the Virginia Film Office of the Virginia Tourism Corporation in Richmond; assisting with marketing the Commonwealth to film companies from May-August of 2004.
A native of Richmond, Neal is scheduled to earn his masters degree from the VCU SportsCenter in May.
