For our students living on the SPIRE Institute & Academy (IA) campus, house parents are the role models they rely on for support and guidance as they navigate the world of academics and their sports commitments. They take their role as leaders and caretakers to our students seriously, spending time with them from sun up to sun down. Friends, mentors and parental figures, they go above and beyond every day. It’s time to meet one of the five house parents and recognize him for the hero he truly is.

Hometowner Cory Morrow has Been a Valued House Parent Since 2017

Geneva, Ohio native Cory Morrow has been a SPIRE house parent for five years. A graduate of Geneva High School, Cory earned his bachelor’s in Sports Management and Education and was a Division I student athlete on the University of Akron’s football team. He brings his experience as both a coach and a player to his students as SPIRE’s regional and veteran programs Performance Coach. He was also an assistant strength and conditioning coach at Perry High School. No stranger to the gridiron, Cory took on the role of assistant football coach at Perry High School, as well as a professional arena football player.

Cory chose to become a house parent to have a bigger impact on student athletes at SPIRE outside of the field and gym settings. “House parenting is a pretty hands-on task that overall, to me, just requires constant support,” he explains. “This means anything from transportation, weekend trips and activities, to house meetings and upkeep of our living space.”

Cory encourages his students to turn to him for guidance. “My house knows that they are supported and surrounded by people that want the best for them in life, in both the classroom and in their respective sports. Being a supportive figure in their time of need or hardships is something that I have encouraged in this role over the years.” 

As for his joy in his role, Cory loves watching his students excel in the SPIRE environment.

“I take pride in watching student athletes enjoy the SPIRE experience and getting them ready for the everyday fast paced college lifestyle and routines.”

SPIRE appreciates each of its house parents for the guidance and mentorship they provide to student athletes. It’s a gift they give back to SPIRE, and we couldn’t do this without them.