• University Storm Recovery Updates

    UPDATE: Monday, Sept. 30, 5 p.m.
    As of a few minutes ago, power has been fully restored to the Hickory campus. Every building should now have power and internet. In addition, internet is now available across the Columbia campus. 

    We have learned that our Asheville center facility received minimal damage and has power. However, the building does not have water or internet. We continue to identify options to support our students, faculty and staff in the Asheville area. 

    On Thursday, Oct. 3, at 7:30 p.m., the LR Wind Ensemble and Wind Symphony Concert will perform its first concert of the year, “Skyward!” at P.E. Monroe Auditorium on the Hickory campus. This event was originally scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 1. If you can safely travel, we hope you can join us for a musical outlet for our community as we recover from Hurricane Helene. 

    Thank you for your continued support.

    University Storm Recovery Updates

Career Closet to provide complimentary work wear for students


Starting this semester, The Alex Lee Career and Professional Development Center will launch the LR Career Closet, a service to provide students access to free professional attire appropriate for career fairs, interviews, networking events and the workplace. Initial funding for the closet is provided by a grant from the Kenneth K. and Suzanne G. Millholland Endowment Fund.

Two people chat at a career fair inside a gym

Through this new service, students will be able to try on and select business clothing, including suits, jackets, pants, skirts, ties and accessories. Gently used clothing will be collected from clothing drives and purchased from local thrift stores. The Career Closet also will have gift cards to local consignment and thrift stores available for students to ensure they can find clothing that works for them.

“Feeling comfortable and confident is critical when going to a career event or job interview,” said Katie Wohlman, director of the Alex Lee Career and Professional Development Center. “The Career Closet will help so many of our students prepare to make a positive impression.”

Open to all LR students, the Career Closet will be located in Mauney-Schaeffer Hall on the Hickory campus and will provide a private place for students to browse and try on clothing. Appointments are required and can be made via Handshake, the university’s career platform.

“We know our students are excited about this opportunity to ensure they feel their best when presenting themselves to potential employers,” said Cat Serrin Niekro, vice president of advancement at Lenoir-Rhyne. “We are grateful to the Kenneth K. and Suzanne G. Millholland Endowment Fund for this funding.”

Utility crew cleaning up and repair electric lines near Hickory campus

A message from University President Dr. Fred Whitt expressing LR's deepest gratitude for the incredible resilience, flexibility and positivity you've all demonstrated during the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

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University Updates text with Lenoir-Rhyne University logo

Thank you for your patience as we navigate the effects of Hurricane Helene on the Hickory, Columbia and Asheville campuses and the surrounding areas. Check the Lenoir-Rhyne website regularly for the latest updates.

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