News | Lenoir-Rhyne University

Four LR students walking on City Walk in Hickory

Study shows significant economic impact Lenoir-Rhyne brings to region

Lenoir-Rhyne delivers a substantial economic boost to the Unifour region— encompassing the counties of Alexander, Burke, Caldwell and Catawba—generating $113.6 million in added income during the 2022-23 fiscal year, according to a new study.

View of campus flowers and brick building in summer

Temporary pause on new student and exchange visitor visa appointments

Please be advised about recent developments concerning international students and exchange visitors (F, M and J visa categories). Recent reports indicate that the U.S. Department of State has temporarily paused the scheduling of new visa interview appointments at U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide.

Kate Esch leans on a table in the space designated for the new food pantry

Lenoir-Rhyne University to expand student food pantry

Thanks to a generous endowment from Kate Esch ’70, Kate’s Cupboard will open this fall in the Cromer Center with 24/7 access to fresh food, personal care items and more.

From "never" to newsroom

How one alumna's dreams evolved into an award-winning reporting career. Her journey shows how unexpected paths can lead to purpose, impact and lasting change.

An Eye for Government

A childhood curiosity about politics led Marcus Slade ’15, MPA, to a career shaping policy and advocating for gun safety across the country.

Greek Revival

At LR, fraternity and sorority life is rooted in tradition and community — where generations of students have found friendship, purpose and a sense of belonging that lasts far beyond college.

Taylor Newton gestures to a projected chart in front of a classroom

Tenure, promotions, and retirements: 2025 faculty milestones

Twelve Lenoir-Rhyne faculty and staff reached significant achievements and transitions as the 2024-25 academic year drew to a close.

Student talking to a representative at career fair with other booths visible in the background

First Destinations for the Class of 2024

LR graduates look forward to a bright future. 98% of the class of 2024 is currently engaged in full-time work or graduate school.

Processional of graduates in robes pause to touch the model of the Charge as they enter Moretz stadium for commencement

Commencement 2025: a celebration of LR love

On the Hickory campus, 505 students received their degrees, along with 50 in Columbia and 72 in Asheville, during the 2025 Commencement ceremonies.

We are seeing: the class of 2025

At Lenoir-Rhyne, Meredith Cecil '25 has become a seeing soul — grounded in purpose, alive in her art, and finally, fully herself.

We are active: the class of 2025

From the football field to the classroom, Carson Keaton ’25 has built an active college experience grounded in leadership, education and lifelong connections.

We are driven: the class of 2025

Driven by purpose and perseverance, Jordan Burrell ’25 found his stride at LR—on the football field, in campus leadership, and even in the pool.