News

Alongside the class of 2023, at the close of this academic year, Lenoir-Rhyne bids farewell to seven faculty members whose decades of service to the university have left an immeasurable impact.

Lenoir-Rhyne conferred 500 undergraduate and graduate degrees during commencement ceremonies held on the university’s three campuses on May 11, 12 and 13.

Samuel Fisher '23 is part of the fourth generation in his family to attend LR, but he has defined his own identity on campus. Serving as president of his junior class and then for the Student Government Association and as the voice of LR athletics announcing during countless sporting events, he has carved his own niche and left his mark.

With the support of family, friends and faculty, Micah Knight '23 has earned a spot and a scholarship in a graduate program at the University of Jyväskylä in Finland – enabling him to start the life of his dreams.

As an undergraduate, Micah McRea '23 has successfully balanced swimming excellence with service to student government and academic achievement. His next chapter will be earning his master's degree in public administration at UNC-Chapel Hill.

As a percussionist, Zachary Bailey '23 is inspired by the music and rhythms of everyday life. At LR he has refined that inspiration, composing original works, performing with multiple ensembles and preparing to share his passion for percussion with the next generation.

Jordan Shealey '23 has left her mark on LR by setting sprinting records in women's track and field. She has made her mark on the Hickory community by helping homeless individuals -- and she's just getting started.

After four years honing her craft on the stage with Lenoir-Rhyne Playmakers, Summer Reich '23 is ready for the next stop: Circle in the Square Theatre School in New York.

Coping with the loss of both her parents, nursing major Shelbey Taylor '23 worked hard and persevered to rebuild a life and career filled with joy and meaning.

Mita Sudhakar '23 has worked behind the scenes to support the faith of her classmates and after graduation, she will continue to do so as a full-time InterVarsity staff member.

The second week in May, Lenoir-Rhyne University will hold commencement ceremonies recognizing the Class of 2023 at our three campus locations in Hickory, N.C., Asheville, N.C. and Columbia, S.C.

Lisa Boernigen '23 has made a name for herself as a star swimmer at Lenoir-Rhyne. Her relationships with her classmates has made LR a home away from home for the Munich native, and now her academic achievements are leading her to graduate school at Duke University.