Loyal Bears: 42 years of giving

The ongoing support of alumni, families and friends provides stability for students and strengthens the mission of Lenoir-Rhyne University year after year. Those who have made gifts for three or more consecutive years are recognized as Loyal Bears, a special group whose steadfast devotion helps shape the university across generations.

This year, LR is celebrating an especially remarkable milestone: 29 families who have made gifts for 42 consecutive years. Their sustained generosity reflects a deep connection to the university and a lasting belief in the power of education to change lives.

“What makes these Loyal Bears so special isn’t the size of their gifts—it’s their consistency,” said Mary Ellen Sherrill, director of alumni and donor engagement. “Year after year, they’ve chosen to stand with LR and our students. That kind of loyalty is such a gift to this community, and we’re so thankful for it.”

When asked what inspires their ongoing support, some Loyal Bears offered short, heartfelt reflections, while others shared stories that span decades of faith, friendship and transformation. Together, their words paint a portrait of gratitude and devotion to Lenoir-Rhyne that stretches through time.

For many, giving is an extension of lifelong ties to the university. David Moore ’76 explained that Lenoir-Rhyne has shaped every part of his life, from friendships and fraternity to family and career. “It’s been an integral part of my life ever since,” he said. “I’m proud to be a Bear, and I believe supporting the mission of the university is vital to our region.”

Russell “Rusty” Isenhour ’75 echoed that sentiment, noting how closely LR is tied to the community. “Living in this area is the best way to enjoy Lenoir-Rhyne’s impact on quality of life in Hickory,” he said. “I will enthusiastically continue to support LR’s mission. Go Bears!”

For others, giving is rooted in gratitude. Paulwyn Boliek ’57, LTSS ’60, reflected on how his time at LR shaped both his personal and professional life: “I give to Lenoir-Rhyne in gratitude for the education I received and the faculty and staff who shaped my growth as a person and student. I have fond and grateful memories of President Voigt Cromer, Coach Clarence Stasavich, Dean Everette Sox and Miss Polly, Professor Ralph Lyerly, Dr. H. R. Greenholt, Dr. Albert Keiser, and Dr. Dorus Rudisill. One of my fondest campus memories was serving as a cheerleader—and even at age 90, I still consider myself one. I give with the hope that my gifts, though modest, will help form future generations into productive citizens. And I’m still cheering for LR. Go Bears!”

Dale Basinger ’66 shared how transferring to LR shaped his life and career. “Transferring to LR was one of the best decisions I ever made. The smaller campus gave me the chance to grow academically, play basketball and baseball, and form friendships that have lasted a lifetime. The professors and coaches I met made a lasting impact, shaping my 30 years as a teacher and coach. Those experiences left me deeply grateful to give back to the university that gave me so much.”

Reid Pollard ’77 reflected on the lifelong friendships fostered at LR: “LR provided an excellent education and an environment to develop friendships that would last a lifetime.”

Boyd Wilson ’74 emphasized the importance of giving back as a core value. “From a young age, I was taught the importance of giving back—whether through sharing my time, talents or financial resources. I firmly believe I wouldn’t be where I am today without the education I received at Lenoir-Rhyne. It’s a place my family deeply cares about, and we are committed to supporting its continued growth and success in the years to come.”

The Rev. Robin F. Gatwood Sr. ’56, M.Div. ’59, shared a story that spans music, ministry and decades of service: “I came to Lenoir-Rhyne for the music—I just wanted to sing with the Kampus Kats dance band. Ever since I heard Frank Sinatra sing in 1939, when I was five years old, that’s all I ever wanted to do. I spent four wonderful years singing and leading the choir and bands, fully planning a life in entertainment. 

"But during my time at LR, thoughts of ministry kept returning. A trusted professor told me to keep singing as long as I could, and that if God wanted me to be a minister, He’d make it clear. He was right. Out of the blue came a feeling I couldn’t resist—I had to go to seminary. 

"That call led me to Southern Seminary, where I earned my M.Div. and S.T.M. degrees, and to 66 years of parish ministry. Along the way, I’ve served as president of the LR Alumni Association, on the Board of Trustees, and in fundraising roles for both LR and LTSS. I hold two degrees from each institution, but more importantly, both have shaped my life and faith. As long as I live, I’ll be faithful to God and loyal to Lenoir-Rhyne University and The Lutheran Theological Southern Seminary.”

Together, these individuals and families represent more than 1,200 years of continuous giving. LR is proud to honor them as Loyal Bears who have stood by the university and its students through generations.

Honorees

• D. Jean Beaver
• Carol ’78 and Trip Beaver
• Paulwyn Boliek ’57
• Ann Dasher ’57
• Duane ’75 and Madeleine ’75 Dassow
• Donald ’56 and Nancy ’56 Deal
• James ’56 and Geraldine Harbinson
• Russell ’75 and Sara Isenhour
• David ’60 and R. Diana ’60 Keck
• Reed Lawson ’67
• Hank ’60 and Bernice McCrorie
• Clarence ’62 and Joyce ’61 Pugh
• K. Reid ’77 and Jan Pollard
• Elaine Mauney
• David ’76 and Sara Moore
• George and Carolyn Moretz
• Dr. Rufus ’61 and Mrs. Mary ’64 Moretz
• Tom Scott ’54
• Boyd ’74 and Anita Wilson
• Kathy ’78 and James Yandle
• The Rev. Dr. Tom ’57 and Mrs. Betty ’58 Sublett
• David ’01 and Elaine ’69 Myers
• Sandra Cline ’72
• Dale ’66 and Margaret Basinger
• A. G. Jonas ’57
• Patricia ’70 and Jerry Knox
• Dorothy Rudisill ’61
• Mary Catherine Taylor
• Mary Stephens