Bear Grove turns campus quad into a vibrant outdoor hub

The quad at the heart of Lenoir-Rhyne University’s campus has long been a scenic space filled with towering trees and lush plant life. But for years, its potential as a gathering place remained untapped. In April 2025, that changed when the university officially opened Bear Grove.

Inspired by Lenoir-Rhyne’s natural setting—including proximity to Lake Hickory, nearby mountains, a nature preserve and outdoor classroom, and the university’s tree-lined campus—students wanted a way to bring more life to the outdoor center of campus.

Enter Isaac Riggs ’25, who—prior to his graduation—served as president of the Student Government Association (SGA) and spear-headed the Bear Grove project.

“We wanted to get students more involved by inviting them to help create this space that would feel more like home,” Riggs said.

A grant from the Kenneth K. Millholland and Suzanne G. Millholland Endowment Fund helped bring the Bear Grove vision to life. With support from Jesse Childers, director of facilities management, and Aramark, the SGA transformed the space in front of the Rhyne Building and Rudisill Library into an inviting outdoor lounge and activity area.

Bear Grove now features picnic tables, colorful Adirondack chairs, a hammock garden and outdoor games.

Opening day in April drew a crowd of enthusiastic students who enjoyed free ice cream, frisbees and the first chance to relax and play in the new space.

“Quads on university campuses are places where students are supposed to go to just hang out,” said theatre major Courtney Bowen ’27.

Others were imagining how they’ll use the space in the future.

“I’m looking forward to sitting in the hammocks and reading,” said Rosa Gonzalez ’27, a biology major. “Next semester, it will be a great place to host Bible study.”

Plans to add oversized outdoor games have generated even more enthusiasm.

“I’m excited to play giant chess and checkers out here,” said theatre major Macy Bridges ’26.

In late July, one of Bear Grove’s most eye-catching features arrived: a nearly 8-foot-tall Adirondack chair with a plaque that reads “Once a Bear, Always a Bear.” Part photo op, part perch, part playful centerpiece, the chair adds a bold and whimsical touch to the space.

Dean of Students and Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Harry Titus, Ed.D., emphasized the impact Bear Grove is already having on campus: “This is a space that will support student well-being and build community.”

Student enthusiasm for the space was apparent from day one, with Bear Grove seeing steady use since its April debut. Students relaxed in the Adirondack chairs through the end of the semester, and the space remained active with visitors, neighbors, faculty and staff throughout the summer. It became a favorite stop during orientation sessions and will host the annual student activities fair on Aug. 27.

To encourage continued use, students can check out hammocks, blankets and games from the circulation desk in Rudisill Library.