News | Lenoir-Rhyne University

We are passionate: the class of 2025

Josh Jones '25 found his fit at LR through small classes, real-world experience, and a major that matches his passion for law and public service.

Five alumni award winners and President Whitt stand in front of a stone wall.

2025 Alumni Awards celebrate commitment and service

On April 12, the Alumni Association hosted its annual awards ceremony, honoring five alumni for exceptional contributions to their communities, services to the university and personal achievements.

Five students stand in front of a professor with arms spread wide, all wearing commencement regalia

Lenoir-Rhyne University to celebrate the Class of 2025 in May commencement ceremonies

Lenoir-Rhyne will honor the Class of 2025 with commencement ceremonies in Columbia on May 8, Hickory on May 9 and Asheville on May 10.

Two students walking to class along campus sidewalk

Lenoir-Rhyne offers support and a path forward for Limestone and St. Andrews students

Lenoir-Rhyne University is saddened by the news of the Limestone University and St. Andrews University closures. LR is dedicated to providing a path forward for affected students.

Visiting Writers Series writers for 2025-2026 - Shelby Van Pelt, Patrick Bringley and Percival Everett

Visiting Writers Series announces stellar 2025-26 lineup

With bestselling authors Shelby Van Pelt, Patrick Bringley and Percival Everett, the 2025-26 Visiting Writers Series season promises three unforgettable evenings of insight and imagination.

A student walks down a sidewalk under flowering trees to the right and Grace Chapel and LR banner visible to the left

LR’s impact and access recognized in revamped Carnegie Classifications

The prestigious Carnegie Classifications place LR among a select group of institutions nationwide for focus on professional programs, student access and career outcomes.

Students in the audience at the 2025 Student Life Awards

LR’s Student Life Awards Shine Again

A shining night of celebration and community, the Student Life Awards returned to honor the passion, leadership, and spirit that define LR’s campus life.

The door to Toni Oakes' office covered with post-it notes from students, Theta Xi flag to the left

Remembering Dr. Toni Oakes

Beloved professor. Inspiring mentor. Joyful presence. Lenoir-Rhyne remembers Dr. Toni Smith Oakes, who shaped the heart and spirit of the OT program.

Four student researchers from LR pose for group photo at NCAS

LR students leave their mark at 2025 North Carolina Academy of Science meeting

Lenoir-Rhyne University students showcased their academic excellence and research expertise at the 2025 North Carolina Academy of Science (NCAS) annual meeting in late March.

Newly appointed LR president Dr. Summer McGee

Lenoir-Rhyne University Board of Trustees Appoints Dr. Summer McGee as President

Lenoir-Rhyne University has selected Summer McGee, Ph.D, as the institution’s 13th president. Her appointment was enthusiastically approved by the Lenoir-Rhyne Board of Trustees after a national search.

Brent Owen to remain at Lenoir-Rhyne as head men’s basketball coach

Lenoir-Rhyne University has announced that Brent Owen has signed a new three-year contract extension to remain as head men’s basketball coach through April 2028.

Joe Bear sitting next to The Cub statue holding a red sign that reads "Thank you!"

Record number of donors powers Bears Give Back 2025

Thank you to the 1,469 donors who made Bears Give Back 2025 a success, raising $695,472 to support Lenoir-Rhyne University programs and students. Your generosity strengthens our community and fuels our future.