News | Lenoir-Rhyne University

Lina San Juan Martinez sits on a wall with Granada in the background

From Hickory to Spain and back again, Lina San Juan Martinez ’25 is building a future in international education one connection at a time.

Visiting Writers Series receives grant for Pulitzer winner Percival Everett

The Visiting Writers Series has been awarded a $10,000 grant from Arts Culture Catawba, ensuring a significant cultural event for the community: an appearance by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Percival Everett on Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026.

Mike Gerbitz works behind a computer screen in a campus lab

SMART and going places

One scholarship. Full tuition. A job after graduation. Michael Gerbitz ’27 just unlocked one of the best deals in higher education: the Department of Defense SMART Scholarship.

The Lenoir-Rhyne University sign at the entrance to the quad

Lenoir-Rhyne greets new trustees for 2025

Four new members bring leadership and experience to the Lenoir-Rhyne University Board of Trustees, as the university also honors the dedicated service of those concluding their terms.

Board of Trustees welcomes new leadership

A dedicated alumnus and seasoned financial expert, Mickey Payseur ’73 brings decades of leadership and love for Lenoir-Rhyne to his new role as chair of the Board of Trustees.

A professor gestures toward the projection screen in a full classroom

LR to implement new software for scheduling events and reserving rooms

25Live, a streamlined, mobile-friendly platform will enhance campus-wide scheduling, coordination and efficiency.

9 students holding thank you signs jump in the air in front of Shaw Plaza

Lenoir-Rhyne University celebrates record-breaking $16 million fundraising year

Donor support in FY25 exceeded expectations across key areas, boosting scholarships, campus improvements and strategic initiatives.

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.