Ritchie family makes $5 million lead gift for recreation center

A bold vision for student well-being at Lenoir-Rhyne is becoming reality thanks to a transformational $5 million lead gift from alumnus Cliff Ritchie '76 and his wife, Amy.

The Ritchies' landmark commitment will provide the lead gift for the university's new Recreation Center—a facility designed to help every Bear thrive physically, mentally and emotionally. In recognition of the family's extraordinary generosity, the building will be named the Ritchie Recreation Center in the family’s honor.  

One of the largest gifts in university history, the commitment provides the lead gift for the project and establishes significant momentum for one of the most significant student-centered initiatives ever undertaken at Lenoir-Rhyne.  

As a member of Lenoir-Rhyne's Class of 1976 and the LR football team, Ritchie found an education that prepared him for a lifetime of leadership, built lasting relationships and strengthened his connection to the university. After graduation, he went on to lead Carolina Beverage Corporation, the family-owned company behind the iconic Cheerwine soft drink, while remaining closely connected to his alma mater as a member of the university's Board of Trustees and one of its most dedicated supporters. 

Now, Cliff and Amy are making an investment that will benefit generations of students. 

 “We are grateful for the opportunity to contribute this gift to a recreation center that will support the health, wellness, and success of every student at Lenoir Rhyne University,” said Ritchie.  

"Cliff and Amy's extraordinary generosity reflects the very heart of Lenoir-Rhyne," said Summer McGee, Ph.D., president of Lenoir-Rhyne. "This gift is not simply about constructing a beautiful new building. It is about creating opportunities for students to flourish. It reflects a belief that caring for the whole student—mind, body and spirit—is essential to their success and to the kind of leaders they will become. Because of Cliff and Amy, generations of Bears will have a place to grow stronger, build community and discover their full potential." 

Located at the heart of campus, the 30,000-square-foot Recreation Center will become one of the university's most visible and heavily used facilities. Designed around an integrated wellness model, it will bring together recreation, fitness, student health and counseling services under one roof, creating a seamless ecosystem of care unlike anything currently available on campus.  

The center will feature:

• Two multipurpose athletic courts  
• A modern fitness floor with cardio, strength and functional training equipment  
• Group fitness studios  
• An elevated indoor walking and running track  
• Student health clinic and counseling center  
• Wellness café  
• Modern locker rooms and welcoming gathering spaces designed to foster connection and belonging  

McGee said the Ritchies' gift does more than move the project forward — it inspires others to imagine what is possible.

"Leadership gifts like this don't just provide resources — they create momentum," McGee said. "Cliff and Amy have issued a powerful invitation to every member of the Lenoir-Rhyne family to invest in the future of our students. We are profoundly grateful for their generosity, their leadership and the legacy they are creating for generations of Bears."

The Recreation Center is a signature project of Lenoir-Rhyne's Charge Forward comprehensive campaign. With an estimated cost of $15 million - $20 million, the facility will serve as a destination where students build healthy habits, strengthen resilience, cultivate community and prepare for lives of purpose and service.