Lenoir-Rhyne University executes purchase agreement for former LTSS Columbia campus

Lenoir-Rhyne University has executed a purchase and sale agreement for the former Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary campus in Columbia, South Carolina.

The buyer, South Carolina-based Clear Dot Charter School, intends to continue using the property for educational purposes. Clear Dot has also expressed a genuine appreciation for the history of the campus and an interest in helping future students understand and engage with its legacy. In addition, the agreement provides for the lease and occupancy of the occupational therapy building beginning July 2026.

"As we continue to steward the university's resources responsibly and align our physical footprint with current and future needs, we are encouraged that this historic campus will continue serving students through an educational mission," said Summer McGee, Ph.D., president of Lenoir-Rhyne. "It is especially meaningful to see a place with such a rich history of learning and leadership continue to serve future generations."

From 1911 to 2025, the Columbia campus served as the home of Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary, forming leaders for ministry and service. Since the seminary's integration into Lenoir-Rhyne University and relocation to Hickory, North Carolina, LTSS has continued to thrive as a vital part of the university's academic and faith community.

The transaction will not affect the seminary's academic programs, students, faculty or operations. The Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary remains an integral part of Lenoir-Rhyne University, where it continues its mission of theological education, leadership formation and service.

The transaction remains subject to customary due diligence and closing conditions. Additional information will be shared as the process moves toward closing.

Frequently asked questions about the sale of the Columbia campus

Why is Lenoir-Rhyne pursuing the sale of the Columbia campus?

As part of our long-term stewardship, we are aligning our physical resources with the current and future needs of the Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary and the university. Since the seminary’s relocation to Hickory, the Columbia campus is no longer used for seminary programs. In addition, Lenoir-Rhyne’s occupational therapy program, which has been based in Columbia, has completed a planned transition to Hickory. Its final Columbia cohort graduated in May 2026. 

This step allows us to thoughtfully transition the property to a new use while ensuring it continues to serve an educational purpose.

Who is the buyer?

The buyer is South Carolina-based Clear Dot Charter School. The school intends to operate on the campus, continuing its longstanding role as a place of education and community impact.

Is the occupational therapy program affected by the potential sale?

The occupational therapy program graduated its last class from the Columbia campus in May and has fully transitioned to the Hickory campus. 

Does this affect the seminary’s programs or students?

No. The Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary’s programs, students, faculty and staff are fully based in Hickory and will not be affected. The seminary continues to thrive as part of Lenoir-Rhyne University.

Why now?

With the seminary’s successful transition to Hickory and full integration into the university, this is an appropriate time to determine a thoughtful and mission-aligned future for the Columbia property.

Will anything be preserved from the Columbia campus?

During the relocation, a table of advisors worked diligently to ensure that artifacts, art and property that do not convey with the property were either moved to the Hickory campus, rehomed to congregations and historic sites, or gifted in accordance with donor wishes where that was possible.

Clear Dot has also expressed a genuine appreciation for the history of the campus and an interest in helping future students understand and engage with its story and legacy.

How will the proceeds from the sale be used?

Final details will be determined as part of the agreement and in consultation with Lenoir-Rhyne University’s Board of Trustees. Consistent with our mission, any proceeds will support the long-term strength and sustainability of the university, including the ongoing work and mission of the Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary.

The Board of Trustees includes members with deep connections to the seminary and the church, and their guidance will help ensure these decisions reflect our shared values and commitments. Over many years, the university has made significant investments to support the seminary and its programs, and we remain deeply committed to its future as an integral part of the LR community.