LR at a Glance

Fast Facts


University Information


  • Founded in 1891 by four Lutheran pastors
  • Three locations: Hickory, N.C.; Asheville, N.C.; Columbia, S.C.
  • Motto: Veritas vos Liberabit (the truth shall set you free)
  • Alma mater: “Fair Star of Caroline”
  • Mission, vision and values
More About Lenoir-Rhyne

Student Body


  • 2,686+ students
  • 1,783 undergraduate (on-campus in Hickory, N.C.)
  • 903 graduate (on-campus and online)
  • Student distribution: 40 states/territories; 77 North Carolina counties; 31 countries
  • $30+ million awarded in scholarships and financial aid annually
  • $100,000+ in study abroad scholarships for LR students
  • 17,643+ living alumni (undergraduate and graduate degree holders) from all 50 states and many countries around the globe

In the Classroom


  • Majors Offered: 50
  • Minors: 53
  • Graduate Programs: 20
  • Student-to-faculty ratio 13:1
  • Average class size: 22
  • Faculty: 140 full time; 81% hold terminal degrees
Explore Our Academic Programs

Athletics


  • Mascot: Joe Bear
  • Conferences: South Atlantic Conference
  • Affiliation: NCAA Division II
  • Teams: 23
Explore Bears Sports
Olivia Thorn

I would define the Lenoir-Rhyne community as a family. The amount of support across campus is incredible.

Olivia Thorn '21, Biology
Six students in graduation regalia stand on the field under a sign reading "Congratulations Class of 2024"

Speakers and members of the Class of 2024 reflected on the challenges of their journey and the fulfillment of lifelong dreams at commencement ceremonies on three campuses.

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Omari Alexander

Lenoir-Rhyne University will honor student-athlete Omari Alexander with a posthumous degree during the Hickory campus commencement ceremony on Friday, May 10.

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