Alumna, husband make gift to support Internship Microgrant Program

Lenoir-Rhyne alumna Kate Esch ’70 and her husband, Bob Esch, have made a gift to support LR’s internship microgrant program for the next three academic years, ensuring continued assistance for students pursuing valuable career-connected learning experiences through the 2027-28 academic year.

The program, originally launched through support from the Truist Foundation, provides small grants to undergraduate students to help offset internship-related expenses that might otherwise create barriers to participation. Since its inception, the program has awarded nearly 300 grants to LR students.

The microgrants help students cover costs such as commuting expenses, work-appropriate clothing and other needs associated with internships. Students also may apply for support to offset lost income while completing unpaid or underpaid internships. Most grants range from $100 to $500.

The Esches’ gift comes as the university’s initial funding through the Truist Foundation grant concludes, allowing the program to continue uninterrupted for students during the 2026-27, 2027-28 and 2028-29 academic years.

Longtime supporters of Lenoir-Rhyne University and its students, Kate and Bob Esch have demonstrated a deep commitment to student success. Kate previously established an endowment for Kate’s Cupboard, the university’s on-campus food and resource support program designed to assist students experiencing food insecurity and other basic needs challenges. A retired scientist and former LR faculty member, Bob has supported faculty and student research, among other initiatives. 

Kate Esch said she was inspired by the direct impact the program has on students’ professional growth and future success. 

“Supporting internships and career development opens doors for all undergraduate students, regardless of their financial background, to gain vital skills and real-world experience,” she said. “This investment helps LR graduates choose the right career for themselves and prepare for professional success.”

“Internships provide transformative opportunities for students to explore careers, build confidence and gain meaningful real-world experience,” said Katie Wohlman, director of the Alex Lee Professional Development and Career Center. “We are deeply grateful to Kate and Bob for investing in our students in such a practical and impactful way. Their generosity will help ensure that financial barriers do not prevent students from pursuing these important opportunities.”