Meet the staff: Nathan Rich, New RD of Carroll Courts

Photo by Senior Photographer Riley Evans

As Lee University continues to grow, so does the faculty and staff. Nathan Rich, newly hired Residential Director of Carroll Court, begins his position with excitement and love for residents at Carroll Court.

Carroll Court is unlike other on-campus living at Lee University as it caters to married and graduate students. 

Rich, a current senior disaster and healthcare education management major, has been involved in residential life throughout his college career. Starting out as a RA in Medlin Hall, then Chaplin at Carroll Court, he recently got the position of residential director of Carroll Courts where he lives with his wife, Harley Rich.

Rich is originally from Lanesville, Indiana where he came to Lee to find a community that emphasized Christian values. 

“He's got such a calm demeanor, and he's able to take on challenges really well and think creatively in difficult situations. So I think already, the role is kind of perfect for him,” said Ben Ellis, sophomore Medlin Hall RA. 

Residential directors have different responsibilities than other res life employees as they are responsible for their entire building and each student who resides there. 

“I think already, it has definitely pushed me and caused me to grow not only as a leader, but I think it's caused me to grow my confidence and who I am,” said Rich.

Students across campus recognize the importance of residential life at Lee as it provides opportunities for residents to create their community.

“Res life is about providing the feeling of a home away from home that students feel safe and comfortable in,” said Lindsey Harris, resident of Carroll Courts and psychology major. 

Residential life at Lee is unique as the university works to uphold Christian values.

“The mission statement of residential life is to let every student know that they matter. And that's part of the reason why I believe it's so important. My RA, my freshman year was super impactful for me. He was just a great guy. And he made a huge difference in my life. And so I wanted to be able to do that for other people,” said Rich.

Rich influences those around him through his leadership and genuine love. 

“I think being an RD is a challenging job. And it's one that people really don't see a lot of what goes on behind the scene,” said Ellis. “It takes a very strong but loving personality type to be an RD and to do the job successfully.”

As Carroll Court is mostly resided by married students and young families, being an RD comes with its own challenges.

“Living at Carroll Courts has been great for me because there's a lot of other young moms who have kids in college and so I have that community  with people who are in the same stage of life as I am,” said Harris.

Residents at Carroll Court can expect to have a genuine relationship with Rich as his new role will only provide more opportunities for him to connect with his residents. 

 “I'm really excited to just build community with people and get to know individuals and families better and hopefully make a difference in the relay experience,” said Rich