YOUNG HARRIS, Ga| Young Harris College has announced the hiring of Dr. Michael Ross as the College's Director of Athletics. 

"Athletics plays a vital role in the life of Young Harris College, and with that in mind, we undertook a thorough search for a strong, visionary leader to guide our program forward. I am pleased to share that Michael Ross has accepted the position of Athletic Director," said Young Harris College President John Wells. "A native of North Georgia, Michael brings a deep appreciation for our region and, as a former student-athlete, a valuable first-hand understanding of the student experience. His background also includes service as a professor at a sister institution, giving him a clear perspective on the importance of the classroom in shaping well-rounded student success. We are excited for the leadership, insight, and energy Michael will bring to this role." 

Ross, a native of Blairsville, Ga returns to the mountains, bringing a strong athletic background with a vision for elevating the student athlete's experience at YHC by building relationships across campus and in the community. 

"I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to join Young Harris College and serve as Athletic Director," said Ross. "The North Georgia mountains and the people who call this area home have always held a special place in my heart, so returning to this community makes this opportunity especially meaningful." 

Young Harris College Vice President for Student Engagement and Athletics Emily Carella states, "Michael is coming home, and we couldn't be more excited. He has deep roots in this part of Georgia, and that connection to our community matters. He understands who we are and what we stand for, and I have full confidence that he is going to do incredible things for our student-athletes and our program." 

Ross obtained valuable experience through his athletic journey that has set him up for success as the next Athletic Director. Being a former student athlete, playing collegiate basketball at Georgia College and State University as well as Piedmont University, Ross has a deep understanding of the student athlete experience and carries this into his professional career. His experience includes working at the professional level with the Atlanta Hawks, in facility and game day operations at Suwanee Sports Academy as well as time in academia, being Assistant Athletic Director at Union County Schools and most recently serving as Department Chair and Professor of Sport Management at Shorter University. 

"Throughout my time in higher education and athletics I have developed a passion for building relationships, creating opportunities, and serving students. I am excited to bring that passion to Young Harris College. I have been fortunate to work with outstanding students, coaches, and colleagues who have reinforced the importance of servant leadership. I am excited to bring that same mindset to Young Harris College and help create opportunities that positively impact our student-athletes," Ross states. 

Ross brings clear and driven goals into his new position as Athletic Director. Serving student-athletes, coaches, the athletic department, the College, and the community will be at the forefront. Through building meaningful relationships with alumni, stakeholders, and the surrounding community, Ross aims to create opportunities to provide all athletic programs with the resources to succeed. With a clear mindset of collaboration, service and innovation, Ross believes that, "Together, we can continue elevating the visibility of Young Harris Athletics, celebrate the accomplishments of our student-athletes, and build meaningful partnerships that benefit the entire institution." 

"I am excited about what lies ahead," Ross said. "Young Harris College has tremendous momentum, passionate people, and a bright future. I am honored to join the team and cannot wait to get to work serving our student-athletes, coaches, alumni, and the entire Mountain Lion family." 

"At the end of the day, I want people to know that I care deeply about serving this College well. If we remain focused on putting our student-athletes first, supporting our coaches, and strengthening the relationships that connect our campus and community, I believe we will create something that will have a lasting impact on Young Harris College for years to come," said Ross. 

Michael Ross will begin his position as the Director of Athletics at Young Harris College on July 13th.