Charge Forward campaign surpasses $75 million, accelerating momentum toward $90 million goal

Lenoir-Rhyne has reached a major milestone in its comprehensive fundraising campaign, Charge Forward, surpassing $75 million toward its $90 million goal.

Launched to advance the university’s mission and long-term vision, Charge Forward is the largest campaign in Lenoir-Rhyne history. The momentum reflects extraordinary generosity from alumni, parents, friends, foundations and corporate partners who believe deeply in the university’s future and the transformative power of an LR education.

“This moment is about far more than a number — it’s about momentum,” said Summer McGee, president of Lenoir-Rhyne University. “Crossing the $75 million mark reflects the progress the Lenoir-Rhyne community is making together. I am deeply grateful to the many alumni, friends and partners who believe in our mission and share our commitment to creating life-changing opportunities for our students.”

Campaign Highlights and Momentum

Since the campaign’s quiet phase began, Charge Forward has generated extraordinary results that reflect both the depth and breadth of support for Lenoir-Rhyne University:

• 43,234 gifts to 528 funds supporting nearly every corner of the university.
• 9,813 first-time donors with an average gift of $285.38, reflecting growing engagement and expanded philanthropic participation.
• 13 gift commitments of $1 million or more, demonstrating strong confidence in the university’s long-term vision.
• 35 new endowments totaling at least $4.8 million, creating permanent support for students, programs and priorities.
• $6 million for the renovation of the Cromer Center, Lenoir-Rhyne’s student union and the heart of campus life.

Every gift — large and small — has contributed to the campaign’s progress, helping Lenoir-Rhyne build momentum that extends well beyond the balance sheet.

Campaign co-chairs Madeleine Dassow ’75 and Duane Dassow ’75 emphasized the collective spirit behind the achievement.

“Reaching the $75 million milestone is a testament to the incredible spirit of the Lenoir-Rhyne family,” the Dassows said. “As alumni, it has been deeply moving to witness our community come together — from first-time donors to those making legacy-defining gifts — to ensure that the LR experience remains transformative for generations to come. We are honored to lead this effort and are more inspired than ever as we push toward our $90 million goal.”

The Road to $90 Million

With approximately $15 million remaining, the Charge Forward campaign now enters its final stretch. The remaining elements of Charge Forward will support:

• A student recreation, health and wellness center, providing new opportunities for student activity, health services and holistic student wellness.
• A residence life modernization fund, enhancing and renewing campus housing to meet the expectations and needs of today’s students.

Planning for these priorities is already underway. Design concepts and next steps will be shared in the coming months. Each project is aligned with LR’s emerging strategic plan. Together, these initiatives reflect Lenoir-Rhyne’s commitment to creating a vibrant campus environment where students can thrive academically, personally and socially.

Supporters interested in learning more about Charge Forward or making a gift are encouraged to explore how their philanthropy can help shape Lenoir-Rhyne’s next chapter.

Related Links

• Charge Forward: The Campaign for Lenoir-Rhyne