Alumni
Palmer, who recently earned an MFA from SCAD, majored in Business Administration and minored in Outdoor Recreation Management while at Lees-McRae
Commencement celebrated the achievements of just over 200 accomplished graduates
The former collegiate soccer player’s role as an athletic trainer at Queens University allows her to give back
The annual 100 Days Until Graduation event kicks off the official countdown to Commencement, now follow this guide to make the most of your last few months as an undergraduate
Alumni Tessa Wells, Hannah Trimble, and Savannah Rees-Trask share their experiences in the different branches of the major
A Greensboro chef looks back at a family Christmas unlike any other: In a tiny Banner Elk apartment, as a young college student, she hosted a holiday feast of epic proportions
Both Phillips and Trotter graduated from Lees-McRae with a Cycling Studies minor
The Lees-McRae campus welcomed alumni with open arms and sunny skies for the annual celebration
Register for Homecoming 2023 now to participate in all the fun
Nelson was brought to the Center with an injured wing as a baby and has lived, grown, and thrived there ever since
Both Summey and Hill are pursuing careers in the business world, an industry for which internship experience is particularly important
Lees-McRae alumni Chrissy Turk ’20 and Bryce James ’21 talk building their careers in the outdoor recreation field following graduation from Lees-McRae
The Pre-Veterinary Medicine major is completing her summer internship at the foundation in Haines, Alaska
The newest cohort of Bobcat alumni enjoyed a weekend of fun and festivities in their honor
Welcome to your home base for all the end-of-year fun and excitement. As the countdown to Commencement begins, keep track of all the important coverage in one place.
John B. Stephenson and Jane Baucom Stephenson have left their mark on Lees-McRae both individually and as a couple
The ceremony awarded departmental awards as well as honors for high performance in service, academics, and athletics
After playing throughout college, Poole now works for the nation's top lacrosse organization, Premier Lacrosse League
The insurance broker and small business owner often references the skills he gained as a student
De Souza is an ambassador for the 2021−2024 cohort of International Olympic Committee Young Leaders
The Alumni Board leads the college’s Alumni Association, an organization of more than 7,000 graduates and former students
Take a walk down memory lane and reflect on this historic year
Abernathy recently graduated from the training academy to become a North Carolina wildlife law enforcement officer
Boyette comes to Lees-McRae after four years at the University of Mississippi
After falling in love with stage management during her time at Lees-McRae, Childs has turned her passion into a career on Broadway
The event brought together students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members to recognize Baker’s life and impact ahead of Homecoming 2022
Hurricane Ian could not deter dozens of proud Bobcats from returning to Banner Elk in celebration of their alma mater
After deciding to pursue vet school during her time in the Wildlife Biology program at Lees-McRae, Simerly successfully completed the program at UTCVM
Mounts is currently working on starting a veteran’s treatment court to provide support and resources for veterans in need
The Order of the Sacred Flame is a planned giving program that guarantees the future of the college
This weekend of festivities will feature fun events for current, returning, and future Bobcats
Three Bobcat alumni share what it’s like working in the professional field of wildlife rehabilitation, and the journeys it took to get them where they are today
Pope will speak about his time as an undergraduate student at Lees-McRae and how it set him up for success in his life and career at Grandfather Mountain
The new chapter serves Lees-McRae alumni in Delaware, Virginia, Washington D.C., and Maryland
Hall’s latest venture takes him to Greenville, South Carolina to serve as the director and costume designer for the Glow Lyric Theatre production of “Aida”
The Business Administration major turned his love of the great outdoors into a career
Commencement weekend was full of ceremonies and events that gave graduates a chance to reflect on their time at Lees-McRae
Dr. Lynn Lewis hopes his donation to the school will give students like himself an opportunity to succeed
The event, sponsored by the Office of Inclusive Excellence, gave African American members of the community a chance to relate their experiences
This year’s guest juror is Adam Adcock, a faculty member of the art department at Appalachian State University
After 15 years in the service industry, Fenton-Haynes was ready to start serving students. Lees-McRae made it possible.
Businesses from all over the region will be recruiting employees for full-time, part-time, and internship opportunities
Alumni Relations and Career and Life Planning host seniors for a celebration of their academic achievements and transition to becoming alumni
Viola studied art and business at Lees-McRae before launching her career as a wedding photographer
A non-comprehensive list of some of our favorite moments of the year
The alum turned a way to make some extra money as a student into a profitable career
Abernethy attributes his success to hard work, his family, and the foundation provided by Lees-McRae
Local gynecologist, midwives—including alumna April Greene—share dedication for women’s health
Lees-McRae alumni Dale Parker and Gus Pederson reflect on the Boone soccer team’s debut season
Alumnus Gunnar Bergey applies his education to supporting the sport he loves
Malbon hopes the book will bring attention to an issue many Americans struggle with
Lees-McRae alum Savannah Trantham is putting her rehab skills to work in western North Carolina
The book drive was hosted by Twenty-Six Acres Brewing Company, a Bobcat-owned business
The mentorship program offers an opportunity for alumni to give back to the college
As student, coach, teacher, public relations director, and vice president, Don Baker pushed the college to new heights
Rose Bowden, the oldest living Lees-McRae alumnus, has thoroughly filled her 99 years
Layana de Souza ’14 is one of 25 individuals from around the world chosen for the prestigious program
Weekend will feature discounted lift tickets and rentals for all Bobcats as well as several virtual events
Annette George shares story of faith and perseverance with students
Del and Barbara Williamson and Ed and Susan Harden join the ranks of those who have left a generous gift for the college in their estate plans
Join us as we look back on some of our successes during this unexpected year
Joining with the Boone Police Department, the Lees-McRae High Country Alumni Chapter serves our local community in hosting a food drive for the Hunger and Health Coalition.
President Lee King expressed gratitude for the Lees-McRae and Banner Elk servicemembers who had sacrificed “to keep us strong and to keep us free”
Lees-McRae mourns the loss of revered alumnus, Board of Trustees member, and Hall of Fame inductee
Outstanding alumni honored for their service to the college during Homecoming 2020.
Lauren McLelland ’10 nears goal of 100 miles in support of Children’s Cancer Research Fund.
Participants can run, walk, or jog their favorite 3.1 mile route in support of the Montibus Scholarship Trust and Bobcat Club.
U.S. News & World Report ranked Lees-McRae College 26th among 120 regional colleges in the South in its recent 2021 Best Colleges guide.
Alumni, students, and staff bring awareness to community with peaceful march against social injustice.
Student-athletes excitedly prepare for a whole new ball game on Tate Field.
On May 20 for International Ride of Silence, the Banner Elk community remembered and honored lost or injured cyclists, including Lees-McRae students and family members, Carla Swart, Megan Baab, and Dr. Jerry Luck.
During WJHL’s Daytime Tri-Cities, McManus encouraged viewers to take advantage of the outdoors to benefit their mind, body, and soul.
Wildlife Rehabilitation Manager at the Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center, Pierce helps see nearly 1,000 animal patients each year.
Golding, who graduated with her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, teaches the fourth grade at Franklin Elementary School.
In Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine’s Top Adventure College contest, Lees-McRae took the gold for the small school category—a second time win.
Due to state gathering guidelines, both Lees-McRae Summer Theatre and FORUM seasons have been canceled.
On-campus classes to be held remotely for remainder of Spring 2020 semester; public events canceled until July 1.
As you navigate the current public health situation, hear from Marla Gentile on caring for your mental health.
Poll closes Monday, March 30 at 10 a.m.
This year marks the eighth Top Adventure College competition hosted by Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine, and Lees-McRae is once again in the running.
Students and faculty are eager to put the space to use as they learn the ins and outs of the ski industry.
Guests are invited to a grand opening celebration and ribbon cutting during the Family and Friends Ski Weekend.
This Valentine’s Day, craft the perfect love poem that is sure to woo anyone by an award-winning poet and assistant professor of English Matthew Wimberley.
During the Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 9, Eco Strategies Group Founder Andrea Ruiz-Hays will address the class of 2020.
Join us as we look back at our favorite memories of the year
In a night of student talent, music, scripture, and fun, join Lees-McRae as we celebrate the start of the holiday season.
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.
During Homecoming, the Alumni Association presented three awards to distinguished individuals and classes.
Communications program graduate Christopher Finley '96 appointed as the next executive director for the Smith Mountain Regional Chamber of Commerce located in Virginia.
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
Here's everything you need to know for tailgating at Homecoming Saturday, Oct. 5
A fun new way to pay it forward and show off your school spirit at the same time
Help Lees-McRae become the next National Outdoor Champion during the AORE Campus Challenge from Sept. 16–Oct. 13.
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.
For the third year in a row, Lees-McRae was named a College of Distinction within the prestigious North Carolina cohort.
Criminal justice major, Chris Hatton '13 becomes next chief of police for the Town of Sylva in North Carolina
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.
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
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
Escape to campus this summer for four days of fun with alumni, family, and friends during Frolic 2019.
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.
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.
Experience a summer of unforgettable musicals with Lees-McRae Summer Theatre starting June 27
As one, the college completed more than 1,200 volunteer hours across more than 35 service locations in both Avery and Watauga counties.
President Lee King and others will showcase our mountain home during a series of receptions
Vote for Lees-McRae every day until Monday, April 1!
Graduation on the horizon? Seniors, this career advice is for you.
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
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
Join us as we look back at our favorite memories of the year
Holiday spirit was in the air Monday, Dec. 3 as students, faculty, staff, community members, and their families gathered on campus for a night of games, singing, and a telling of the Christmas story.
In a night of music, scripture, and fun, join Lees-McRae as we celebrate the start of the holiday season.
Experience the historical inauguration of Lee King, 16th President of Lees-McRae
Michael Zanetti, a 2016 graduate with a major in business administration and minor in cycling studies was recently appointed to the position of lead account executive for Salt Lake City-based bike component brand Rotor America.
Spotlighting young, thriving North Carolina business owners and professionals, Business North Carolina magazine selected Jesse Pope '02 as one of the 22 "Trailblazers" under 40 in its September issue.
With Homecoming 2018 on the horizon, check out everything that’s happening on campus both for Homecoming weekend and in the days leading up to it.
On Aug. 27, President Lee King and donors of the college congregated to Grandfather Mountain for the annual President’s Circle Summer Soirée.
Together as one, the college and the Town of Banner Elk will celebrate their connections with the Founder’s Day Ceremony and Family Picnic and Concert on Oct. 4
During her keynote address, NOSW Founder Jane Stephenson shared her center of the universe and why students should have one, too.
The College and High Country community will come together to celebrate its 16th president, Dr. Herbert L. King Jr.
Starting fall 2018, students can now receive their Master of Arts in Teaching.
Experience Washington Heights, New York, through energetic performances and Latin rhythm in Lees-McRae Summer Theatre’s performance of In The Heights.
Longtime City of Lenoir police officer, Capt. Brent Phelps '05, has been announced as the next chief of police.
Now in its third year, the Mile High Fourth of July celebration June 29-July 4 will boast plenty to do both on campus and off.
Take a musical journey that defined a generation with Lees-McRae Summer Theatre beginning July 13.
Escape to campus this summer for four days of fun with alumni, family, and friends during Frolic 2018.
Hayes Auditorium and Broyhill Theatre will come to life with the debut of The Wiz on June 24
Friday, June 1, marked the first day of King’s leadership as 16th president of the institution.
The landmark fundraising effort raised more than $32 million for various projects and initiatives across campus
Looking for something to do this summer? The 2018 Summer Theatre season kicks off June 24.
On Saturday, May 5, the Lees-McRae community and their families welcomed 266 students into the graduating class of 2018.
In the hours that led to Commencement 2018, students, faculty and staff gathered across campus to celebrate another year of accomplishments and successes.
Lees-McRae beats out Liberty University to take the crown in Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine’s annual Top Adventure College competition.
Join the Lees-McRae community in celebrating another great academic year in the lead up to Commencement 2018.
Get to know some of the 2018 graduating class, their favorite memories over the last few years and their plans after Lees-McRae.
On June 1, Dr. Herbert L. King, Jr. will assume the presidency of Lees-McRae. In the spirit of King’s coming leadership as the 16th president, we borrowed 16 questions from the Proust Questionnaire (commonly used by Vanity Fair).
The commencement ceremony at Lees-McRae College on Saturday, May 5 will feature a familiar face. Current president, Dr. Barry M. Buxton, has been tapped to serve as speaker in recognition of his many efforts and contributions.
This year marks Blue Ridge Outdoors Magazine’s sixth “Top Adventure College” tournament and Lees-McRae is in the running.
There is no doubt that adjusting to college life is difficult. With parents farther away and a newfound freedom, guidance can seem hard to find.
President-elect Dr. Herbert L. King, Jr. returned to campus last week to meet with several groups on campus as part of his transition before his first day on June 1, 2018.
What are the chances that two Lees-McRae alumni would meet on a project caring for a juvenile osprey that was over 2,000 miles from home? Perhaps it is a little higher than you would think.
President-elect Dr. Herbert L. King, Jr. addressed a full auditorium of Lees-McRae students, faculty, staff, trustees and community for the first time during the official introduction event Friday afternoon.
On January 19, 2018, the Lees-McRae College Board of Trustees elected Dr. Herbert L. King, Jr. as the 16th president in the 118-year history of the institution. King will succeed Dr. Barry M. Buxton on June 1, 2018.