Chris V. Rey, J.D. is a purpose-driven leader who has spent more than two decades transforming organizations, communities, and lives through bold, strategic leadership. His journey—from the battlefield to the boardroom and from city hall to the college presidency—reflects an unwavering commitment to service, innovation, and empowerment.
A decorated U.S. Army officer, Rey began his leadership journey as a computer information technology analyst before earning his commission as a Signal Corps officer through Officer Candidate School. He led with courage and clarity through deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, earning the Bronze Star and Meritorious Service Medal. His 22-year military career shaped his belief that leadership is not about authority—it’s about accountability, vision, and the will to serve others.
In 2011, Rey brought that same mission-focused discipline to public service when he became the youngest elected Mayor of Spring Lake, North Carolina. Over three transformative terms, he led the town to its largest infrastructure investment and greatest economic expansion in more than two decades—proving that values-based leadership can turn vision into measurable progress.
As the 36th International President of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., one of the nation’s largest historically Black fraternities, Rey redefined organizational leadership on a global scale. Re-elected in 2023, he championed the fraternity’s first comprehensive strategic plan, expanded international engagement, and launched a multi-million-dollar affordable housing initiative in Washington, D.C.—demonstrating how leadership can mobilize legacy organizations to create modern impact.
In July 2023, Rey was named the 20th President of Barber-Scotia College, becoming the chief architect of the institution’s resurgence. Under his visionary direction, the College has experienced its largest student enrollment in over 20 years and rekindled a spirit of excellence, innovation, and faith across its historic campus. His leadership mantra— “Rise with Purpose”—has become the rallying cry for students, faculty, alumni, and partners committed to the college’s renaissance.
As President and CEO of Chris V. Rey, LLC, he now equips leaders, organizations, and emerging professionals with the strategies and mindset to lead with integrity and impact in a rapidly changing world. He just co-authored his first book, The Disruptive Leader. The book distills lessons learned from a lifetime of leading in crisis, managing transformation, and inspiring teams to exceed every expectation.
Rey holds a B.S. in Business Administration (Information Systems) and a Juris Doctor from the William & Mary School of Law, with executive training from the UNC Chapel Hill School of Government and Harvard University’s Graduate School of Education.