A Catalyst for Transformation
Lenoir-Rhyne announces public phase of $90M “Charge Forward” campaign
Lenoir-Rhyne University today announced the public phase of its most ambitious fundraising effort in history — Charge Forward: The Campaign for Lenoir-Rhyne — a comprehensive $90 million initiative that will propel the university into its next era of growth, innovation and impact.
Already, the university has secured more than $72 million toward the goal through gifts and commitments from alumni, friends, faculty, staff and community partners.
“Charge Forward is more than a campaign — it’s a call to action to make our great university even greater,” said Dr. Summer McGee, president of Lenoir-Rhyne. “Together, we are investing in students, strengthening our academic and campus experience and ensuring that Lenoir-Rhyne continues to lead with purpose, faith and distinction for generations to come.”
Since the campaign’s quiet phase began, Lenoir-Rhyne has achieved extraordinary results:
- 12 gift commitments of $1 million or more
- 33 new endowments valued at $4.8 million
- 30 new documented planned gifts totaling $12.3 million
- 34,654 gifts directed to more than 487 funds, totaling $67.5 million
- 9,369 first-time donors, with an average first-time gift of $371
One of the most significant achievements to date is the successful fundraising of the full $6 million required to renovate the Cromer Center — a milestone that reflects the tremendous enthusiasm and belief in enhancing student life at Lenoir-Rhyne. The revitalized Cromer Center will reimagine the heart of student life on campus with modern, flexible spaces for gathering, dining, collaboration and community-building.
Campaign support has also advanced:
- The endowment of the Clemmer-Long Center for Vocation and Purpose, advancing LR’s mission to help students discern meaningful careers and lives of service.
- The creation of the Fritz Honors College, expanding opportunities for high-achieving students through interdisciplinary learning, research and community engagement.
- The renovation of Moretz Stadium and McCrorie Softball Stadium, enhancing facilities for student athletes, fans and the broader LR community.
“Every gift, no matter the size, is fueling the future of Lenoir-Rhyne,” said Cat Niekro, vice president for advancement. “The early success of Charge Forward reflects the incredible passion and loyalty of the LR family. As we enter the public phase, we invite all Bears to be part of this historic moment.”
As LR moves into the public phase of the campaign, the university’s focus turns to strengthening the student experience in bold and transformative ways.
The remaining elements of Charge Forward will support:
- A Student Recreation and Wellness Center, providing new opportunities for student recreation, 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, and each project is intentionally 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.
The Charge Forward Campaign is led by a dedicated volunteer Campaign Committee chaired by Madeleine and Duane Dassow, both members of the Class of 1975, whose leadership and passion for Lenoir-Rhyne have inspired record-setting generosity. The committee includes alumni and friends who have worked tirelessly to share the university’s vision and engage others in supporting its future.
“We feel that it is now time for us to give back to insure a bright future for LR’s future students,” said Madeleine and Duane Dassow. “We encourage all alumni to consider getting involved in the campaign by making a meaningful gift and by contacting other alums and asking them to do the same.”
As the campaign enters its public phase, alumni, friends, and community members are encouraged to learn more, share their stories and make their own Charge Forward commitment at chargeforward.lr.edu.
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