Lenoir-Rhyne surpasses $90 million Charge Forward campaign goal ahead of schedule

Lenoir-Rhyne University has surpassed the $90 million goal of its Charge Forward comprehensive campaign ahead of schedule, reaching a historic milestone in the largest fundraising campaign in university history.

With gifts counted beginning in fiscal year 2021, Charge Forward has brought together alumni, parents, friends, foundations and corporate partners in support of Lenoir-Rhyne and its future. The campaign will continue through fiscal year 2027, building on the momentum that has carried it beyond its $90 million goal ahead of schedule.  

“This milestone is a testament to the extraordinary generosity of the Lenoir-Rhyne community and the belief our donors have in this university and its future,” said President Summer McGee. “Reaching $90 million is an incredible achievement, but what matters most is what those gifts make possible for our students, our faculty and staff, and the communities we serve.”

The achievement caps a period of remarkable momentum for Charge Forward. In February, Lenoir-Rhyne announced that the campaign had surpassed $75 million. Just six months later, the university has crossed the $90 million mark.

Throughout the campaign, donors have supported priorities touching nearly every corner of Lenoir-Rhyne. Charge Forward has generated tens of thousands of gifts, welcomed thousands of first-time donors and established dozens of new endowments providing permanent support for students, programs and university priorities.

Among the campaign’s most visible investments are $6 million in philanthropic support for the renovation of the Cromer Center and a recent $5 million commitment toward the new Recreation, Health and Wellness Center. Campaign support has also strengthened scholarships and financial aid, academic programs, athletics and other initiatives that directly enhance the student experience and expand access to an LR education.

“Reaching $90 million is an extraordinary milestone, and it reflects the generosity of thousands of people who believe in Lenoir-Rhyne and what we are working to accomplish,” said Cat Niekro, vice president for institutional advancement and marketing and communications. “Every gift to Charge Forward represents someone choosing to invest in our students and in the future of this university. We are incredibly grateful for that trust and support.”

The milestone follows a record-breaking year for philanthropy at Lenoir-Rhyne. During the 2025-26 fiscal year, donors contributed nearly $20 million to the university, the largest fundraising year in LR history.

Surpassing $90 million represents an important milestone for Charge Forward, but the campaign’s work continues. As Lenoir-Rhyne welcomes the largest incoming class in its history, philanthropic support will continue to advance programs, facilities and experiences that strengthen the student experience and position the university for the future.

Additional information about Charge Forward and the impact of the campaign is available at chargeforward.lr.edu.