ALC Alums Kaitlynn and Ryan Morris tabbed as new Cross-Country Coaches

Pippa Passes, KY: Kaitlynn and Ryan Morris have been named as the new Women's and Men's Cross-Country coaches at Alice Lloyd College. In addition to their coaching duties, Kaitlynn will be serving in the Admissions Department while Ryan serves in the Office of Development.

"Kaitlynn and Ryan are a quality fit for our college and athletics department", stated, Mr. Gary D. Stepp, Dean of Men. "As former ALC student- athletes, they understand the incredible opportunity our college provides men and women in our region.  During their four years here, both were excellent academically while achieving impressive careers as runners. In addition, both are hard workers with a burning desire to see our students grow and prosper into the leaders of tomorrow."

Kaitlynn, a native of Grundy VA, is a 2021 graduate of Grundy High School and a 2025 graduate of Alice Lloyd College.  During her four years here as a runner, she was a 4-time NCCAA National Qualifier.

Ryan, a native of Dryden VA, is a 2016 graduate of Lee High School and a 2022 graduate of Alice Lloyd College.  He is the most decorated runner to ever wear the ALC cross-country uniform. During his four years here in the blue and white, he was a 4-time NCCAA National Qualifier, and 3-time NCCAA All-American. He also is the only runner in ALC history to qualify for the NAIA Marathon, which he accomplished during his senior year. After graduating, he also qualified for several national marathons, and competed in the Boston Marathon.

When asked what attracted them to the position, the husband-wife duo commented, "We both possess a strong love for the school and for the sport. We actually met on campus, so ALC has a special place in both of our hearts. We definitely appreciate the chance to give back to a college that has given so much to us and continues to have a major impact on our lives."

As far as their expectations, the new mentors stated, "We know it is important to bring in high-character student athletes. We hope to build a great team culture, and help the program return to prominence on the national level. Most importantly, we hope to be a positive influence in our players lives. We also know that we are not just coaching these young men and women for four years, but hope we can serve as a role-model to them even after they graduate."