Campus Life
Commemorate this special month through a series of lectures, film screenings, and more
Bowling brings years of advancement leadership experience to the position
ONE Lees-McRae unites all college stakeholders including students, alumni, families, and the local community
For nearly 40 years Pinnacle Inn operated as a beloved resort for guests seeking a mountain getaway, and the Inn’s echoes can still be found on campus today
The film collection showcases outdoor adventure stories from around the world
Make the most of the most wonderful time of the year with this guide
Another year of memories made in the mountains
Proceeds from the event will benefit the college’s Ski and Snowboard team
“Sweet Charity” is a dance-heavy romcom featuring choreography by Bob Fosse
Many students have done their part to contribute to the recovery effort, whether in Banner Elk or from afar
Building your bucket list for this fall in the mountains? We’ve got you covered
Sophomores Layla Tillery, Xavier Carey, and Lilly Anthony are the newest cohort of Lees-McRae College Sullivan Fellows
Summer 2024 was another successful season of patient care and hands-on learning for students
The college marks the largest student body in nearly 15 years
Make the most of this semester by trying out something new
Tim Gardner for High Country Press
The completion of this project represents the institution’s focus on the future as it marks its 125th anniversary
You won’t want to miss this one-night-only entertainment experience
The camps are held each summer across two weeks, and are targeted toward high school students
The production is written and directed by Lees-McRae Summer Theatre’s own Janet Barton Speer
Western North Carolina is known for our winters, but summers are full of fun, adventure, and beautiful weather
Summer orientation is an important time to get acquainted with the college’s campus, meet your peers, and prepare for life as a Bobcat
With a selection for every reader, this list is sure to educate, entertain, and engross
The series will feature eight exciting musical performances
The college's summer schedule is full of exciting entertainment
Each semester the series takes students on adventures around the High Country
The annual tradition celebrates all things Appalachia with a week of special programming
The 70-acre property was revitalized from an old landfill and today is a thriving ecosystem where Lees-McRae students conduct groundbreaking research
The week-long celebration will explore all things Appalachia, from food, to music, to nature
Get your tickets for the screening now
After witnessing the lack of diversity in the outdoor industry firsthand, Hunter founded Black Folks Camp Too to address the disparity
As she prepares for Commencement in May, the Criminal Justice and Psychology double-major reflects on how she has grown
An old favorite returns to the stage
Women’s History Month is recognized in March in the United States, and this year Lees-McRae, led by Associate Professor of Communications and Media Studies Abby Arnold-Patti, is joining the celebration
Winter months can be particularly difficult for those who face mental health struggles, but this guide can help lead students in the right direction
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
The group of students spent two weeks in Belize earning certifications in scuba diving and sailing, and experiencing full-time life on the water
Prior to the screening of the film the college will be hosting a fun and festive winter carnival
Hannah Leyva reports
2023 marked another year of historic growth for Lees-McRae
The Appalachian Trail, which runs along the western border of North Carolina, is the longest walking-only path in the world
The snowboarding film is one of two winter sports films TGR will screen as part of the series throughout this academic year
Christian Gardner at the Avery Journal-Times explores the college's annual Mountain Day of Service tradition
Jones has been a leader in the Student Affairs office since May 2022, and he hopes to continue improving the office in this new role
Each year, Lees-McRae students, faculty, and staff participate in Mountain Day of Service, a day of volunteering and giving back to the community
The 15-year partnership between Lees-McRae and Reel Rock Film Festival continues with three exciting new films
The Lees-McRae campus welcomed alumni with open arms and sunny skies for the annual celebration
Part superhero origin story, part rom-com, all campy musical, “The Toxic Avenger” stretches the boundaries of musical theatre
The new Sullivan Fellows program allows for up to four new members to be inducted into the Foundation each year
Register for Homecoming 2023 now to participate in all the fun
Bees around the world face numerous threats and declining populations that could severely impact the global ecosystem
Rayne will deliver a performance of her spoken word poetry as part of the college’s Sexual Assault Awareness Week programming
The college welcomes families to campus where they can explore and learn more about their students’ home away from home
Each year the annual Convocation ceremony welcomes students back to campus and ushers in a new academic year
This two-week camp is targeted toward juniors and seniors in high school who are interested in wildlife
The North Carolina-based musical is the second production of this season of Lees-McRae Summer Theatre, “a love letter to North Carolina”
The “Red, White, and Blue Ridge Variety Show” will feature a wide range of North Carolina-focused entertainment, from clogging to opera
This year’s series will feature three different public events held in Evans Auditorium
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.
The ceremony recognized members of the Presidential Commission for Inclusive Excellence and awarded the Luminary and Beacon awards
Each year the college hosts a week of programming during April, Sexual Assault Awareness Month
The Exercise Science major has found new passions, gained new skills, and discovered a new career path
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
The festival celebrates and highlights the heritage and history of the Southern Appalachian region
Upchurch used his time in college to prepare himself for his dream career of athletic coaching
Applications for the upcoming cohort are now open to current freshmen students
The film tour is returning to Lees-McRae for the fifth year
The students, along with Program Director Ken Craig and Provost Alyson Gill, toured the famous Biltmore House and visited the estate’s temporary exhibit, Italian Renaissance Alive
Vote for Lees-McRae to help advance our mountain home to the tournament championship
One year after the initial acquisition of this property, Lees-McRae faculty and students have already begun taking advantage of the new possibilities it presents
Musina was the third-party juror of the annual exhibition where students self-submit their best artwork in the hopes of being awarded first, second, or third place
Appalachian female poets Sara Moore Wagner and Pauletta Hansel will deliver readings of their work on womanhood, identity, and Appalachia
This year’s exhibition will be judged by artist and professor Chris Musina
The No Man’s Land Film Festival will visit Lees-McRae College as part of the world tour for their 8th annual event
Dickson’s talk, which will explore historical and modern perspectives on Black history, will round out Black History Month programming at the college
The show is the department’s first foray into children’s theatre, a learning experience for the students and faculty involved in its production
2023 NC Year of the Trail is a state-wide opportunity to explore the trails, greenways, and blueways in communities across the state
The event, which starts the official countdown to graduation each year, prompts both reflection on the past and excitement for the future among graduating seniors
Sanders was the keynote speaker for the college’s commemoration event, “Lessons from the Mountaintop: Revelations from the Promised Land”
The department’s first foray into children’s theatre celebrates imagination and the magic of storytelling
Learn about how to get involved in the four new culturally specific clubs that have been started in the past year
Sanders, a faculty member at Emory University, will speak on the event’s theme, “Lessons from the Mountaintop: Revelations from the Promised Land”
Take a walk down memory lane and reflect on this historic year
BearWise is an organization that works with states and communities across the country to ensure outdoor safety
English majors Mikayla Hamilton and Makayla Gregory revived the journal as a creative outlet for Lees-McRae students
The series, organized by Campus Life, included three off-campus excursions designed to show off the best of the High Country
The annual event will recognize and honor veterans who are part of the Lees-McRae and local communities
A gallery opening for Joslin’s photography show will be held on the Lees-McRae campus
The annual contest invites students from across campus to write and submit their own scary stories
The Reel Rock Film Tour brings climbing and adventure films to live audiences around the world
With more than 30 volunteer sites throughout the High Country, Lees-McRae continued the tradition of giving back to the community for another year
Learn about the origins of this month-long celebration
Hurricane Ian could not deter dozens of proud Bobcats from returning to Banner Elk in celebration of their alma mater
The High Country is home to a wealth of natural wonders that draw visitors from around the world
Tate Hall dormitory was formerly Grace Hospital, a community medical hub that served the High Country
The Office of Inclusive Excellence will be hosting a celebration for all members of the Lees-McRae and local community
The event was held Friday, Sept. 16−Sunday, Sept. 18
“Shalom Y’all: The Jewish American Experience in the High Country” was the latest installment in this series of discussion panels
This next installment of the High Country Adventure Film and Speaker Series will be held on Tuesday, Oct. 11
Find your passion in a student-led club at Lees-McRae
Trustee Neil Ramo, Director of Counseling Services Marla Gentile, and sophomore Benjamin Gribbins will be the discussion panelists at the event
This weekend of festivities will feature fun events for current, returning, and future Bobcats
This course will work on physical, psychological, and behavioral defense strategies that will improve individual and community safety
None of the snakes living in or near the lake are venomous, and they are an essential part of the local ecosystem
This year’s Parent and Family Weekend will be held Friday, Sept. 16−Sunday, Sept. 18
“Doc Watson: Celebrating a Life in Music” has been nominated for the 2022 Bluegrass Music Awards Event of the Year category
Twenty years after his own graduation, Pope returns to Lees-McRae to share stories of his career journey and the way Lees-McRae has impacted his life
A move into the Chaffee Administrative Building will more than double the Esports space, giving them room to continue to grow
The 2022–23 Theatre Arts season will also feature “The Glass Menagerie” and “James and the Giant Peach”
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 Lees-McRae Campus Bicycle Coordinator discusses her journey with the League of American Bicyclists
Rapid deployment training prepares law enforcement officers for active shooter and other high-stress emergency scenarios
Director of the Burton Center for Student Success Beth Beggs talks independence, time management, and having a successful first year
Learn about the new tech updates that will improve campus living
STARS is a framework that allows institutions of higher education to receive recognition for their sustainability practices
Genuine Foods will begin foodservice operations at the beginning of August
Learn how to get the most out of orientation from those who’ve been there before
The first show of the 37th season will open Sunday, June 26
Davies’ 15 years of experience at Stagedoor Manor helped prepare her to take on a teaching role at Lees-McRae
Learn how Lees-McRae creates safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community this Pride Month
For more than 100 years Grandfather Home for Children has addressed the needs of children in the High Country
The Walk and Roll in the Park event will feature educational programming on cycling as well as games and giveaways
Wildcat Lake and Arthur Student Recreation Complex will be open to the public for the summer season
Commencement weekend was full of ceremonies and events that gave graduates a chance to reflect on their time at Lees-McRae
Sims: “As I prepare to get my degree from the school, I am thankful for every step of my journey.”
Augustin has been very involved on campus throughout her four years, focusing on community
The 2022 season features two award-winning musicals, “The Drowsy Chaperone” and “Matilda: The Musical”
The ceremonies celebrate the accomplishments of the junior and senior nursing students and serve to commemorate their commitment to their field
Barker has earned her degree in Elementary Education at the Surry Community College distance learning campus
England’s time on the basketball team and in SGA have afforded him many opportunities to get involved on campus
This annual event is not only a celebration of all things Appalachia, but also a time to learn from and reflect upon the rich history of the region
Searcy is leaving the college to pursue new opportunities, entrusting the position of police chief to Brandon Greer
The ceremony highlighted Bobcats doing outstanding work across departments and academic programs
Shelton Learning Commons is hosting four sessions throughout the week where students have a chance to use Oculus VR headsets
Commencement and the end of the semester are fast approaching. Keep track of all the important end-of-year coverage here.
Vance is a senior in the Online Human Services program
Ignite Retreat is a weekend-long experience that challenges participants to actively drive change in their lives and communities
New campus police chief Brandon Greer is recognized in special ceremony
Horton has been working on a senior project about plant restoration in Venus fly traps
The weeklong event is an annual tradition that recognizes and celebrates the heritage of Lees-McRae and the surrounding region
Executive Director of Institutional Advancement Katie Talbert is named category finalist for 6th annual Boone Area Chamber of Commerce 4 Under 40 Awards
Lees-McRae College aims to grow residential enrollment to 1,000 students – Children’s Hope Alliance to serve ten times as many children
The college’s Sexual Assault Awareness Week is part of a wider push that takes place nationally each April
The college has recently purchased a drift boat that will be used for experiential learning, fundraising, and more
Matthew Wimberley has published two award-winning books of poetry
The Business Administration major is on the college’s cycling team and serves as president of C.R.A.N.K. Crew
The weekend was full of fun, food, and friendship for Bobcats of all ages
The funds will be used to enhance the student experience, modernize the infrastructure, and improve accessibility.
Greer brings 20 years of law enforcement experience to the position
Students, faculty, and staff are invited to learn how to take advantage of all the Learning Commons has to offer
Turner hopes to work with exotic animals for his career, a desire that was grown at Lees-McRae
The panel was hosted by the Office of Inclusive Excellence in honor of Women’s History Month
The tour features fishing-related short films from around the world
The event, sponsored by the Office of Inclusive Excellence, gave African American members of the community a chance to relate their experiences
The week’s festivities will include breakfast from Chick-fil-a, multiple crafts, and cookies from Appalachian Cookie Co.
Shapiro will take what she learned in Banner Elk to a new job with Washington, D.C. Capitol Police
There will be two sessions of the camp for two different academic levels
The acquisition will play a key role in accomplishing priorities laid out in the strategic plan
Associate Professor and Veterinarian Amber McNamara shares ways we can protect our wildlife this season
This is the second discussion panel hosted at the school to bring awareness to topics of diversity and inclusion
Pieces were submitted for judging by students across campus
The Friday night event will feature resources and information on drug and alcohol abuse, addiction, and recovery
In just two years Hollifield has made her mark on Lees-McRae and Banner Elk
This year’s guest juror is Adam Adcock, a faculty member of the art department at Appalachian State University
After winning in 2020 and placing second in 2021, Lees-McRae needs your help to take home the gold once again
Acklin is passionate about making the community more accessible through adaptive sports and bicycle friendly infrastructure
Gibson is excited to set an institutional precedent when it comes to DEI work at Lees-McRae
The panel will feature a current student, a Lees-McRae alumnus, and a member of the local African American community Junaluska
Fitness Center Manager Maddie Beck shares easy ways to maintain cardiovascular health
Lili Bauer has focused on sustainability and accessibility throughout her undergraduate career, an effort that she hopes to continue post-grad
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
Grace Champion from Career and Life Planning talks about what really matters when applying to post-grad jobs
Gibson brings 15 years of experience in diversity, equity, and inclusion work to the college
The commemoration program included music, poetry, a reading of King’s most famous speech, and an address from Pastor Alan Yawn
Honor and remember the civil rights leader at the annual commemoration program
There are many opportunities on and off campus to bring our community closer together
A non-comprehensive list of some of our favorite moments of the year
Swap will highlight sustainability through activities, raffles, and gear trading
Event will feature "Stoke the Fire", a new film focused on joy of skiing
Students, faculty, and staff celebrate beginning of a new era with special ceremony
Five-student female cast has had to work hard to master the complex score and prepare for live performances
Maximize your experience with these tips from our Admissions team
Ceremony will show gratitude to the brave men and women who have served or are faithfully serving
This new musical tells the origin story of Hildegard von Bingen through 90 minutes of rhythmic vocal performance
REEL ROCK, one of climbing’s greatest celebrations, returns and will feature six different mini-films
The four-CD set will include a never-before-heard recording of a young Watson performing in Boone, North Carolina in 1941
Installation of station is in line with institution’s commitment to community
Donated equipment will fill the revamped Fitness Center, reinforcing commitment to wellness
Cody Porter, assistant professor of Wildlife Biology, says woolly worms are abundant and mobile
Students, faculty, and staff complete projects at 31 local sites
The changing fall foliage provides great views and photo opportunities. Knowing the best way to view it all is important.
Hulbert is ready to transform the student experience at Lees-McRae
Celebrate throughout October with a full slate of sustainability-centered activities
Students of Excellence celebrates individuals who go above and beyond to serve others
The FDA recently approved the Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine for individuals age 16 and older
Smith oversees campus housing and works with area coordinators and RAs to meet students’ needs
From Aug. 8–20, the college is hosting multiple events for new and returning students, faculty, and staff
Watching the sunset from the Roan Highlands should be on the bucket list of every outdoor-loving Lees-McRae student
Chromebooks and webcams are now available for checkout to main campus students
The Blue Ridge Mountains provided a perfect backdrop for the new company
Winkelmann visited Lees-McRae to film a snowboarding video for Red Bull
Lees-McRae was recently named a Gold Bike Friendly University and was selected to compete in the Blue Ridge Outdoor Magazine Top Adventure College Tournament
Winkelmann and several other snowboarders filmed the video on Lees-McRae campus in February
Awards were given to individuals who have exhibited superior leadership, academic achievement, and service over the past year
Students have the option to earn Leave No Trace Trainer and Master Educator certifications
Commencement and the end of the semester are fast approaching. Keep track of all the important end-of-year coverage here.
The play by William Shakespeare will be performed on Nebel Green
Students, faculty, and staff enthusiastically celebrated a week dedicated to the mountains
The former landfill site has become a diverse ecosystem that trains students in essential field skills
The group bicycle ride was held as part of Bike Month, a campuswide initiative to celebrate bike culture
The daughter of Korn guitarist Brian “Head” Welch is offering hope for other young adults who have experienced parental loss
Vote between March 22 and March 28 to help the college advance to the Elite Eight
The college joins schools, city programs, and non-profit organizations across the state dedicated to promoting cycling safety
The college is the smallest educational institution in the country to earn Gold status
Opportunities to engage students personally and a campus-wide passion for the outdoors drove results
New event offers guidance and connection for students in their final year at Lees-McRae
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
The first 50 seniors to register will receive a tablet sleeve and professional headshot
Campus chaplain Ted Henry and Dean of Students Justin Kitts shared remarks
The art exhibit, which will be hosted in the King-Shivell Gallery, features depictions of mythological and folklore characters composed of everyday materials
Join us as we look back on some of our successes during this unexpected year
Lees-McRae recognized for showing the benefits of on-campus pets
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”
Kick off the start of the winter season with the annual Winter Film Festival at Lees-McRae College
Outdoor Recreation Management program at Lees-McRae joins effort to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion in outdoor industry
Outstanding alumni honored for their service to the college during Homecoming 2020.
Following the showing of "Loud Krazy Love," a documentary of Brian Welch's struggles with addiction, Welch and daughter Jenna opened up for questions from students. Read more about the event sponsored by Avery County ABC Board, Cheap Joes Art Supplies, David Searcy, and HD Stewart.
U.S. News & World Report ranked Lees-McRae College 26th among 120 regional colleges in the South in its recent 2021 Best Colleges guide.
Special Education major and softball player Morgan Crowe named the next recipient of the Sullivan Foundation Scholarship
Grayson Wickel exploring his passions on the bike and on the stage
Alumni, students, and staff bring awareness to community with peaceful march against social injustice.
Lees-McRae partners with Ballad Health to bring additional resources for students, faculty, staff, and the Banner Elk and Avery County communities.
During the Spring 2020 semester, 337 students were recognized for their academic achievement.
During WJHL’s Daytime Tri-Cities, McManus encouraged viewers to take advantage of the outdoors to benefit their mind, body, and soul.
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.
Counselor Johnny McManus explains the science behind the benefits of getting outdoors and how it improves your mental health.
Here’s how to make the most of exploring a prospective college online.
Psychology Program Coordinator Dr. James Carson and Director of Counseling Services Marla Gentile explain effective coping and self-care tips during these unusual times surrounding COVID-19.
No matter where you are right now, here are some lessons you can take with you from your home in the High Country.
On-campus classes to be held remotely for remainder of Spring 2020 semester; public events canceled until July 1.
One of the few colleges named after two women, Lees-McRae has a long-held tradition of supporting and celebrating women in the High Country.
Three students were selected during the annual Scholars Day as recipients of the Elizabeth McRae and Shelton scholarships.
May Wildlife Rehabilitation Center Veterinarian Dr. Amber McNamara, her life, and accomplishments featured in Watauga Democrat's All About Women Magazine.
The college landed among those across the country recognized for their commitment and investment in supporting transfer students.
As you navigate the current public health situation, hear from Marla Gentile on caring for your mental health.
Just as there’s etiquette when you’re in class, here’s a quick rundown on your digital presence and how to communicate properly.
Poll closes Monday, March 30 at 10 a.m.
A guide offered by Student Affairs and the Burton Center for Student Success
This year marks the eighth Top Adventure College competition hosted by Blue Ridge Outdoors magazine, and Lees-McRae is once again in the running.
Asheville-based artist Madalyn Wofford will guest judge the student art exhibition in King-Shivell Gallery Monday, March 16 at noon.
After being surrendered to the Cleveland County Animal Services and scanned for a microchip, Comet was returned to Reeves and will now live with her on campus.
Rising high school juniors and seniors are invited to explore Lees-McRae and experience life as a Bobcat during Open House on Saturday, April 25.
Have you ever wondered what really happens in your brain when you fall in love? This Valentine’s Day, learn about the science surrounding love and attraction from expert and professor of psychology Dr. Sue Hart.
A multimedia artist, Prewitt will present his solo video and sculpture work “Tallscreens” in an exhibition Thursday, Feb. 13 in King-Shivell Gallery.
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.
Meet political journalist and historian Rob Christensen as he presents his most recent book The Rise and Fall of the Branchhead Boys Tuesday, Feb. 18 at 7 p.m.
During WJHL's Daytime Tri-Cities, Sailor shared some ideas for families or friends looking to create a Valentine's Day care package for their student.
In the Conference Carolinas "Body, Mind & Soul" series, which highlights conference member student-athletes, Acklin shared her story and her inspiring journey since enrolling at Lees-McRae College.
During the Commencement ceremony on Saturday, May 9, Eco Strategies Group Founder Andrea Ruiz-Hays will address the class of 2020.
Check out Wimberley’s debut book during a reading event Thursday, Feb. 13, hosted by the Stephenson Center for Appalachia.
Ten students travel to the opposite side of the globe for a wild experience.
Held in the Dotti M. Shelton Learning Commons Makerspace, students led by Director of Library Services Jess Bellemer sewed 21 pouches for baby marsupials.
On Tuesday, Jan. 14 and Thursday, Jan. 16, students, led by Director of Library Services Jess Bellemer, crafted pouches to send to rehabilitation centers in Australia.
Director of Library Services Jess Bellemer shows QC Life Host Dedrick Russell how to sew a pouch for the injured wildlife affected by the Australian wildfires.
Join us as we look back at our favorite memories of the year
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.
In a night of student talent, music, scripture, and fun, join Lees-McRae as we celebrate the start of the holiday season.
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.
New to the Outdoor Recreation Management lineup of films, Winterland will screen in Evans Auditorium Thursday, Nov. 21.
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 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.
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
Here's everything you need to know for tailgating at Homecoming Saturday, Oct. 5
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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
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.
F3T will return to campus Friday, May 3 at 6 p.m. in Evans Auditorium
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.
Give your palate a thrill during the International Spring Fiesta Wednesday, April 3 in the Student Recreation Complex
Take advantage of a full week of workshops, events, and experiences you won’t get anywhere else but in the Appalachian High Country.
Vote for Lees-McRae every day until Monday, April 1!
Lees-McRae named one of just two North Carolina colleges to be ranked among the 50 best bike-friendly colleges in the U.S.
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.
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
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
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