Chris Rey’s journey to becoming president of Barber-Scotia College seemed like it was merely fate.

Rey read a news story about the struggles of the historically Black college and reached out to see what resources he could provide the school. 

Unbeknownst to him, the Board of Trustees was in the middle of a national search for a new president. His offer would be met with a bigger request: apply for the position. 

“Remembering the words of my mentor John Lewis, I have a responsibility for my people, a responsibility for humanity to use my talents to make a difference, and so I said, ‘why not?’” the Spring Lake, N.C.- native told QCity Metro.

The college’s Board of Trustees unanimously appointed Rey to the position, according to a news release from the school, on July 6.