Impact Local & Global Communities

Reese Institute for Conservation of Natural Resources


Supporting the adage "think globally, act locally."

At LR, we have always believed in combining conservation with responsible economic development, whether in our own backyard, halfway across the country or all the way around the world.

The Reese Institute for the Conservation of Natural Resources provides our students an unprecedented opportunity to do exactly that — participate in a curriculum that supports the adage "think globally, act locally."

Through service learning, scholarship, fieldwork experience, travel opportunities and internships, you will have the chance to positively impact our immediate community, while setting your sights on the larger conservation issues of the nation and beyond.

The Reese Institute is affiliated with the undergraduate Environmental Science and Policy program and the graduate program in Sustainability Studies.

Through my work at the Reese Institute, I have been able to further my personal and professional skills around advocating for sustainable solutions.

Kaley Cross
Student talking to a representative at career fair with other booths visible in the background

LR graduates look forward to a bright future. 98% of the class of 2024 is currently engaged in full-time work or graduate school.

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Processional of graduates in robes pause to touch the model of the Charge as they enter Moretz stadium for commencement

On the Hickory campus, 505 students received their degrees, along with 50 in Columbia and 72 in Asheville, during the 2025 Commencement ceremonies.

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