Lenoir-Rhyne plans new home for Greek Life

Lenoir-Rhyne University is again investing in the student experience with plans to acquire a property adjacent to its Hickory campus that will become a new home for Greek Life. 

Following the acquisition of the property in September, LR will undertake renovations to create a shared space for the university’s fraternities and sororities, providing a central gathering place for students and new opportunities for programming, leadership development, alumni engagement and connection.

“Providing a dedicated space for our fraternities and sororities is a strong commitment to and investment in the future of Greek Life at LR,” said Summer McGee, Ph.D., president of Lenoir-Rhyne. “Greek Life has a long and rich history at Lenoir-Rhyne and continues to be an important part of how many of our students find community, develop as leaders and build relationships that last well beyond their college years.”

The announcement comes after a strong fall recruitment season for Lenoir-Rhyne’s Greek organizations. This fall, 64 students joined one of the university’s seven existing fraternities or sororities—a 178 percent increase over fall 2025. The growth reflects increasing student interest in the opportunities for connection, service and leadership offered through Greek Life.

The property’s location adjacent to campus will make the future space easily accessible to students. Planning for the renovation and use of the property will continue following the closing, with additional details to be shared as plans develop.

Lenoir-Rhyne will celebrate the momentum surrounding Greek Life during Homecoming Weekend with a Greek Life cookout on Saturday, Oct. 17, after the football game. Current fraternity and sorority members will gather for the informal celebration, with alumni joining at the invitation of individual chapters.

“The response from our fraternity and sorority students has been incredibly positive,” said Harry Titus, Ed.D., vice president for student experience. “They’re excited to have a place they can call their own that also strengthens the sense of community across Greek Life. This is something our students have wanted, and we’re excited to work with them to shape what comes next.”