2019
Join us as we look back at our favorite memories of the year
During the Fall 2019 semester, 330 students were recognized for their academic achievement.
The Q&A focused on Huffard's recent release of his new book Engines of Redemption: Railroads and the Reconstruction of Capitalism in the New South.
The first of its kind in the Southeast, the Ski Industry Business and Instruction minor incorporates outdoor recreation management, professional business practices, and industry certifications.
Former cyclist for Lees-McRae, Hoover will lead both the men's and women's cycling teams at the college in Savannah, Georgia.
In a recent ranking of online human services programs across the U.S., Intelligent listed Lees-McRae as a top college.
With help from the Asheville-based foundation, the People in Need grant will assist in the development and funding of the NOSW Summer 2020 program and beyond.
Historian and author of First Taste of Freedom, a study of early bicycle marketing, Turpin provided insight for a Smithsonian article that explored the recent uptick in scooters as a popular mode of transportation where bicycles largely dominated.
Experience Huffard’s new book during a signing and reading event Wednesday, Dec. 4, hosted by the Stephenson Center for Appalachia.
Learn how students on the newly-developed varsity Esports team are redefining what it means to be an athlete in the digital arena.
On Saturday, Dec. 7, join NOSW for their second annual holiday market featuring local crafts and food.
Whether you are meeting with a potential future employer or current colleagues, here are some helpful tips to ensure you make the most of it.
Starting in Spring 2020, Dr. Sean Collins will begin his tenure as dean alongside the faculty within the School of Natural and Behavioral Sciences.
Executive Director of Grandfather Mountain Jesse Pope '02 invited MWRC students and staff to both attend and be a part of the meeting that addressed environmental changes and climate threats in Western North Carolina.
High school seniors who want to incorporate the thrill of adventure into their college studies now have a unique option in the mountains of North Carolina.
In a night of student talent, music, scripture, and fun, join Lees-McRae as we celebrate the start of the holiday season.
With the revised Comprehensive Articulation Agreement, students at community colleges are transferring to institutions like Lees-McRae at a higher rate and with more ease.
Faculty, staff, and students were welcomed to the national leadership honor society.
Here is your rundown of Academic Preview Days and why you should seriously consider attending.
Director of Campus Recreation and Outdoor Programs Lizzy Gardner explains why Lees-McRae offers stress-reducing workshops and mindfulness hikes.
Vice President for Enrollment Management Kevin Phillips shared his top five tips for anyone applying to the FAFSA this fall
New to the Outdoor Recreation Management lineup of films, Winterland will screen in Evans Auditorium Thursday, Nov. 21.
With prime leaf viewing here, Gardner provided some tips on how to better enjoy your visit to the High Country and your leaf viewing experience
Encouraging colleges across the U.S. to get outdoors, the month-long challenge concluded on Sunday, Oct. 13 with the college earning a spot at the top.
With a satellite classroom located at the nearby resort, students can earn a minor that is the first of its kind in the southeast and the third on the East coast.
Discover why our students call this place home at an Academic Preview Day hosted by each of our four schools.
During Homecoming, the Alumni Association presented three awards to distinguished individuals and classes.
View Asheville-based photographer Daniel Abide’s work now through the end of the fall semester.
During the TV segment, Acklin shared her top tips and the "ABC Quick Check" in order for cyclists to stay safe on the roads.
Featuring some of the world’s most extreme climbing athletes across the globe, the 14th annual REEL ROCK Film Tour will return to Lees-McRae on Friday, Nov. 1.
Experience the fourth annual mock emergency simulation that brought together three programs across campus for the learning experience of a lifetime.
Communications program graduate Christopher Finley '96 appointed as the next executive director for the Smith Mountain Regional Chamber of Commerce located in Virginia.
Higher education online ranking resource Online Schools Report listed the Lees-McRae online Human Services major as one of the best in the nation.
Faculty and students from the May Wildlife Rehabilitation Center released a red-tailed hawk during the annual Catawba Riverfest at the Paddy's Creek area of Lake James State Park on Sept. 21
Take a deep dive into Appalachia’s one-of-a-kind dialect with Megan Weaver, Appalachia native and former Lees-McRae English professor, on Thursday, Oct. 17 in Evans Auditorium.
Hear from students as they reflect on their time spent volunteering during the annual Mountain Day of Service on Sept. 25.
Here to inspire and celebrate women in the sport, the Orvis 50/50 On the Water Film Tour will make its debut on campus in Evans Auditorium
College programming ranking guide GetEducated listed the online RN to BSN program as one of the most affordable in the U.S.
An expedition unlike any other takes students and faculty out of the classroom, across the states, and into the heart of the West.
The article titled, "Ten Train Songs That Tell The Story of the South," lays out the top ten tracks Huffard believes maps out the intricate history of the southern U.S.
Here's everything you need to know for tailgating at Homecoming Saturday, Oct. 5
In this most recent Q&A, get to know Dean of Nursing and Health Sciences Kim Priode and her long-lived pursuit of medical excellence and teaching the trade to nurses of the future.
On Sept. 13, juniors from the May School of Nursing and Health Sciences nursing program received their white coats and pins during the annual ceremony.
Among those colleges in the Southeast, Lees-McRae landed on a list of institutions working hardest to assist economically disadvantaged students earn their degree.
A fun new way to pay it forward and show off your school spirit at the same time
As part of an annual event to thank those who make Lees-McRae scholarships a reality, students and those benefactors gather for a night of celebration.
Help Lees-McRae become the next National Outdoor Champion during the AORE Campus Challenge from Sept. 16–Oct. 13.
Mid-Atlantic premier snow sports publication and community DCSki highlights new ski industry minor and instructor certification courses
Parents and families, this weekend is for you. Pack your bags and enjoy an entire weekend in the High Country dedicated to having fun in our mountain home.
Jane Stephenson and Michael Joslin invite campus and community members to a signing of their books Sept. 15 and Sept. 18.
National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) called out Lees-McRae for its new ski industry minor and cutting-edge instructor certification programming.
King-Shivell Gallery will once again come to life during the annual faculty exhibition starting Thursday, Sept. 12.
From familiar faces to new friends, Homecoming brings everyone together to honor the past, rejoice in the present, and dream about the future.
Join the college and the Town of Banner Elk for an evening of live music, food, and fun for the whole family starting at 5 p.m. in Tate-Evans Park.
Tegan Dean’s story of competing, singing, studying, and doing it all over again the next day.
The agreement, called the Promise Program, will provide eligible two-year Blue Ridge Community College graduates the opportunity to complete their bachelor degrees with guaranteed admission.
Daily Digest spotlights Lees-McRae and Beech Mountain Resort for offering exclusive ski industry business and instruction minor.
Discover the High Country’s hidden secrets and surreal landmarks during the upcoming Stephenson Center for Appalachia event led by writer and photographer Michael Joslin.
Lees-McRae highlighted as one of the top seven colleges to bring your furry companion.
All of campus gathered on Thursday, Aug. 22 to start a new academic year at the annual Convocation celebration.
In the spirit of a new year, Skeate to share tales of his past with professionals of the future.
Emergency Medical Services and Management major and cyclist Ben Herbertz will become the next recipient of the Sullivan Foundation Scholarship.
A life-long pursuit of turning a passion into her career, learn more about the accomplishments of Speer in this in-depth spotlight.
In this most recent Q&A, get to know Associate Dean of Students for Residence Life Kelsey Taylor and her passion for making a difference in the lives of students.
From laundry to budgeting and everything in between, here is a quick list of the top five adulting skills your student needs to know before college.
For the third year in a row, Lees-McRae was named a College of Distinction within the prestigious North Carolina cohort.
The second book in a four-part wilderness guide series, "Mountain Summer" written by English professor Michael Joslin is a collection of stories and photography, also taken by Joslin, in the High Country.
Criminal justice major, Chris Hatton '13 becomes next chief of police for the Town of Sylva in North Carolina
Natural and physical science major, Chris May '72, and current executive director of the Cape Fear Council of Governments was awarded the Order of the Long Leaf Pine by Gov. Roy Cooper, North Carolina's highest civilian honor.
In this most recent Q&A, learn a little more about Dean of Students Justin Kitts, his time at Lees-McRae, and what he has to say to students.
On Friday, July 12, campus community members gathered to celebrate the legacy of a long-time employee and unveil the renamed Frankie Ramsey Needham Alumni House in her honor.
On August 1, Dr. Kim Priode will begin her tenure as dean alongside the faculty within the May School of Nursing and Health Sciences.
Lees-McRae Summer Theatre Artistic Director Janet Barton Speer was awarded the highest-level civilian honor in the state, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, by North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper.
Travel back to 1899 New York City and get to know the scrappy, courageous youngsters of Newsies in the final show of the Lees-McRae Summer Theatre season starting July 30
The Office of Student Affairs, with the direction of several new staff, will begin a new initiative to better serve campus.
Along with several other notable universities across the U.S., Lees-McRae was featured for its specialized courses on niche topics.
There can be a lot to do before you finally arrive on campus, but this checklist will reassure you knowing you’ve got everything set and ready to go for move-in day.
Theatre Arts Administration major broadens academic offerings starting in Fall 2019.
Celebrate the heritage of Banner Elk and the man that changed the course of its history forever during the Lees-McRae Summer Theatre performance of From the Mountaintop: The Edgar Tufts Story starting July 11
Hear from Michael Joslin on his latest book, Mountain Summer, during the Stephenson Center for Appalachia lecture on Wednesday, June 26.
You’ve knocked out your to do list and pack your bags, but here are some final things to keep in mind once you are here on campus.
Learn about nonprofits in the High Country by specialist and Sustain Essential and Rural Community Healthcare leader Susan Larson during the Stephenson Center for Appalachia lecture on Wednesday, June 19.
Escape to campus this summer for four days of fun with alumni, family, and friends during Frolic 2019.
In this retelling of the biblical story of Jonah, experience the children’s show A Whale of a Tale starting Saturday, July 6.
Incoming Fall 2019 student, Kimberly Johnson of Sims, North Carolina, was named the beneficiary of the celebrated, full-tuition Elizabeth McRae Scholarship
Featuring traditional mountain entertainment, the Stephenson Center for Appalachia will begin its summer programming on June 12 in the Dotti M. Shelton Learning Commons at 7 p.m.
Travel to the Greek islands with the debut of Mamma Mia! starting June 27 in Hayes Auditorium and Broyhill Theatre
Needham, director of advancement services, concluded her time as the longest-serving employee in college history.
Kick off a full summer celebrating the life and legacy of the Rev. Edgar Tufts with a gallery exhibit in Hayes Auditorium and reception in Miller Commons.
Orientation isn’t just for new students—it’s also a great time for parents and families to learn more about Lees-McRae! Check out this guide for what you need to know before arriving to campus.
President Lee King joined a panel of outdoor industry leaders to share the economic importance of the outdoor industry, its developing workforce, and the political climate impacting its growth.
Before hitting the road and heading to campus for orientation in June, make sure you check these items off your “to do” list.
During the Spring 2019 semester, 326 students landed on either the Dean’s or President’s lists.
During their annual ranking of online programs, EDsmart ranked online programs at Lees-McRae as one of the top ten in North Carolina.
In its most recent print edition, USA Today Pet Guide highlighted various college community members and their four-legged friends, who make up the college’s unique, pet-friendly campus
Over the course of a semester and concluding in an open house on May 2, students from the first mural-focused art course completed seven paintings for Children’s Hope Alliance at their Grandfather Home for Children campus.
Experience Commencement as 246 graduates cross the stage and begin a new adventure in their lives
Preceding the highly-anticipated Commencement ceremony, the Baccalaureate Service is an evening of scripture, words of wisdom from faculty and staff, as well as a traditional hooding ceremony.
Join the Lees-McRae community in celebrating another great academic year in the lead up to Commencement 2019.
During the May 10 ceremony in Evans Auditorium, Alpha Chi will induct 18 students and their chosen distinguished faculty member.
F3T will return to campus Friday, May 3 at 6 p.m. in Evans Auditorium
Students, faculty, and staff gathered Tuesday, April 23, in Hayes Auditorium and Broyhill Theatre to celebrate the recipients of several coveted awards in academics, leadership, and service.
For Sexual Assault Awareness Week, the college and OASIS have collaborated to bring events across campus that are open to all students, faculty, staff, and community members.
Experience a summer of unforgettable musicals with Lees-McRae Summer Theatre starting June 27
After a hard-fought battle, the college shared with the magazine what makes our outdoor adventures and recreation top notch.
As one, the college completed more than 1,200 volunteer hours across more than 35 service locations in both Avery and Watauga counties.
Students across programs travel for an unforgettable spring break trip in Costa Rica, and learn about not only a new country, but also themselves.
Students Veronica Laughton and Brendan Bengtson together with Outdoor Recreation Management instructor and League of American Bicyclists certified instructor Deana Acklin will teach community children essential bicycle skills needed for the future.
STTI Nursing Honor Society, housed within the May School of Nursing and Health Sciences, welcomed new members during a recent induction ceremony on March 27
From March 7–12, students and faculty from the School of Business and Management cycling studies minor lobbied in Washington, D.C., as part of the National Bike Summit
President Lee King and eleven other students, faculty, and staff were welcomed to the national leadership honor society
NOSW will kick off another year of programming during the summer session June 9–29, 2019.
Give your palate a thrill during the International Spring Fiesta Wednesday, April 3 in the Student Recreation Complex
Have a love for the ski industry? Or perhaps outdoor medicine? Starting in fall 2019, the Outdoor Recreation Management program will offer two new minors students can pursue.
Take advantage of a full week of workshops, events, and experiences you won’t get anywhere else but in the Appalachian High Country.
Charlotte Five, a daily email newsletter and website, listed both the college and Banner Elk as one of the "4 tiny towns in the Carolinas worth a visit"
President Lee King and others will showcase our mountain home during a series of receptions
Today's technology can be confusing, but with the help of students from the School of Business and Management, it doesn't have to be.
Vote for Lees-McRae every day until Monday, April 1!
The recent partnership provides members of the FCNI new academic opportunities and resources as well as a home base for the growing international organization
The regional accreditation body for the Southeast, SACSCOC recently appointed Hansen to a three-year term on the Commission's Board of Trustees.
Lees-McRae named one of just two North Carolina colleges to be ranked among the 50 best bike-friendly colleges in the U.S.
Award-winning High Country artist Nicolas Schneider will guest judge the student art show in King-Shivell Gallery Monday, March 25 at 2 p.m.
Together, the nursing program and the Lees-McRae Student Nurses Association in sponsorship with the High Country Charitable Foundation will host a panel discussion and screening of Beautiful Boy Wednesday, March 20 starting at 7 p.m. in Evans Auditorium.
During the commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 11, president of popular publication Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine, Blake DeMaso, will address the class of 2019
Graduation on the horizon? Seniors, this career advice is for you.
With warmer days on the horizon, here are some quick, easy ways to get outside and enjoy our beautiful campus
In this most recent Q&A, learn a little more about Climbing Team Coach Carter Smith, his passion for the extreme sport of climbing, and why students should try it, too.
The High Country became the spark that would lead novelist Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings to write her Pulitzer Prize-winning book, The Yearling. Learn about Rawlings’ season in the mountains Thursday, March 7 through the eyes of English professor, Michael Joslin.
After taking historic gold last year in Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine’s “Top Adventure College” tournament, Lees-McRae will fight once again to reign supreme
Some good news for those considering bringing their furry friend to college: Lees-McRae was ranked sixth in the nation's top 25 pet-friendly colleges
Students in the Outdoor Recreation Management program take their learning to a new level
Get your skis and snowboards ready for the annual Ski Beech Weekend co-hosted by Beech Mountain Resort and the Alumni Association March 1–3.
College community mourns the passing of former Trustee Ed Hood
Open to all high school students, the Theatre Arts department will open its doors for a day of auditions and information Feb. 23
The Lees-McRae Outdoor Recreation Management program will now offer the NC Environmental Education Certification Program—becoming one of only a few colleges in the state to offer the certification.
In this most recent Q&A, learn about Head Women’s Basketball Coach Keith “Mister” Jennings, his time in the National Basketball Association, and what every student on campus—athlete or not—can learn from basketball.
A telling of underdogs and unsung heroes, Silent Sky is based on a true story about one astronomer’s monumental discoveries gone largely unnoticed.
You may recognize the faces that make up the three-member band of Back Porch Anarchy. Experience the old-time mountain band on Wednesday, Feb. 6 in Evans Auditorium.
The highly-versatile Makerspace within the Dotti M. Shelton Learning Commons offers campus a new way to create, learn, and gain hands-on experience
Of more than 3,000 schools considered across the nation, the May School of Nursing and Health Sciences landed in the top 40 institutions in the state
Marking a prestigious academic achievement, nearly half of the college student body were awarded a spot on either list for the fall 2018 semester.