Lenoir-Rhyne athletic director resigns suddenly

HICKORY, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — The athletic director at Lenoir-Rhyne University has resigned less than a month into the new academic year, the Hickory private institution announced Tuesday.

Kim Pate has resigned from her position as vice president for athletics at the Division II school, effective Tuesday. She sites “another opportunity in athletics” after being hired hired in March 2016 to replace longtime AD Neill McGeachy.

“Today is bittersweet as I conclude my time at LR and feel called to pursue another opportunity in athletics,” Pate said in a statement. “It has been an absolute privilege to serve alongside an amazing group of coaches and athletic administrators who truly value and prioritize the student-athlete experience,” Pate said. “Although my family and I have truly loved every minute of being a part of the Bears Family, it is time for us to embark on a new and exciting chapter.”

During Pate’s time at Lenoir-Rhyne, LR improved its facilities and programs and has ranked as high as 12th nationally in Learfield’s NCAA D2 ranking. In 2023, Pate was named the Cushman and Wakefield NCAA Division II Athletic Director of the Year by NACDA.

The Bears football team has turned into a national power in recent years. They advanced to the Division II semifinals last year and are currently ranked sixth in the country in the American Football Coaches Association poll. The rise has corresponded with $18 million in upgrades to Helen & Leonard Moretz Stadium. The campaign included construction of a new press box and the home stadium bleachers in 2022, plus installation of Field Turf in 2023.

The school also has had two recent national champions, the men’s lacrosse team in 2023 and women’s triathlon team in 2022.

Lenoir-Rhyne President Dr. Fred Whitt expressed his gratitude for Pate’s contributions.

“We appreciate Kim’s contributions in leading and advancing our athletic programs over the past eight years,” Whitt said. “We wish her the best in her future endeavors.”
A national search will begin immediately to find her replacement.

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