Construction continues for the Alex and Lee George Hall – the much anticipated addition to the Minges Science Building. The project will feature a new state-of-the art facility, equipment, and the latest technology which promises to change the face of science education at LRU.

Renovated in the summer of 2016, the Cromer Center serves as the hub for student dining options, featuring the newly expanded dining hall. Named for former LR President Voigt Cromer, the Center is home to the LR Bookstore and offers space for students to gather socially or for student activities.

At LRU, we welcome individuals of different race, gender, ethnicity, nationality, religion and sexual orientation. We value the ideas and perspectives that individuals of different backgrounds, skills, beliefs, and experiences bring to the table.

LR is fortunate to have dedicated alumni who provide invaluable support to the University and its students. In addition to financial support, alumni serve as mentors, provide internship opportunities, as well as a vast network of professionals to help LR graduates succeed.

LRU continues to grow and thrive, and we share that success with our generous donors. In 2015, LRU concluded its University Rising campaign which raised over $65 million to advance the higher education experience for students.

LRU has partnerships with local businesses and organizations to bring world-renowned authors to speak to members of the campus and the community for nearly three decades through the Visiting Writers Series. Nicholas Sparks, Garrison Keillor, Anne Lamott, and David Baldacci are just some of the authors who visited LR.

Playmakers, Lenoir-Rhyne University’s student theatre organization, produces main stage performances and studio productions, striving to showcase the talents of students, faculty and community members. Typically, Playmakers holds four productions each academic year, providing students the opportunity to gain invaluable theater experience.

The sounds of music can be heard across the LR campus through performances by the many choirs, orchestras, bands, and ensembles. The Music Department offers numerous opportunities for students – both from the University and the community – to study and enhance their musical gifts.

The Western Piedmont Symphony, Hickory Choral Society, Hickory Art Museum, Hickory Community Theater, and The Green Room Theater are just some of the organizations that bring exceptional talent, culture and entertainment to Hickory.

In 1895, the college assumed its first official synodical sponsorship which continues today with the North Carolina Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America.

Grace Chapel prominently stands in the center of Lenoir-Rhyne's campus, serving as a spiritual focal point for students, faculty, staff and the community. Services, held every Wednesday morning, bring the LR campus community together for worship and fellowship.

In 2016, a labyrinth was constructed in the Quad to provide each student with a quiet place to reflect on their life and spiritual journey. To walk the labyrinth is to experience a time of healing, clarity, and transformation.

There are several organizations – such as the Campus Christian Ministry (CRU) - that students can join to strengthen their faith and connect with others in the Christian ministry.

Since 1995, Reverend Andrew Weisner has served as the University Pastor. He is here to lead in worship, offering prayer, comfort, and guidance to LR students and campus community members of all denominations.

A short drive from campus leads students to downtown Hickory’s Union Square, where they can take in a live concert, stroll through the Farmers Market, or dine on the patio at Old Hickory Station where the occasional train pass through town.

In an effort to encourage student engagement in the community, LR joined the city in establishing the University City Commission. Through this initiative, local businesses offer discounts to students and also provide internship opportunities.

Hickory is located just an hour from the bustling city of Charlotte, NC where nightlife and professional sporting events are just a short trip away. Asheville, NC and the Appalachian Mountains offer hiking, camping, skiing, rafting, and a breathtaking view of the Appalachian Mountains.