The Strategic Plan for Lenoir-Rhyne University
A shared vision to strengthen Lenoir-Rhyne’s impact, elevate every experience and position the university for a strong and sustainable future.
A Clear Path Forward—
Rooted in Mission and Built for Impact
Developed through broad campus collaboration, this strategic plan outlines priorities guiding Lenoir-Rhyne’s work from 2026 to 2029 while establishing a foundation for long-term institutional impact.
Each theme represents LR’s lofty aspirations to have a more distinctive institutional identity and value proposition, to have a greater reach, to offer a more resonant student experience and to be known as a premier university from the perspectives of all of our stakeholders.
Mission-Driven Momentum
Strengthening Lenoir-Rhyne’s brand, advancing academic innovation and pursuing sustainable strategies for long-term growth.
Excellence in Every Experience
Delivering a distinctive, high-touch student experience through learning and engagement at Lenoir-Rhyne.
Connection & Collaboration
Deepening partnerships and engagement to expand Lenoir-Rhyne’s reach and strengthen its impact across the region.
Measuring Our Progress
Together, the three strategic themes advance these shared institutional goals. Progress toward each goal will be guided by measurable outcomes and coordinated initiatives across academic, administrative and engagement areas.
* Specific benchmarks and progress indicators will be shared as implementation advances.
GOAL 1: Enrollment Growth
Increase enrollment revenue, reflecting the impact of a stronger institutional brand, expanded academic innovation and improved market demand.
GOAL 2: Student Retention
Increase first-to-second year retention and second-to-third year retention, demonstrating sustained student connection, academic progress and belonging.
GOAL 3: Regional Impact
Be the top partner and employer of choice in our region, reflecting deeper and more strategic connections between the university and the region.
Message from the President
A shared commitment to Lenoir-Rhyne’s future
Lenoir-Rhyne University stands at an important moment—one shaped by our proud history and defined by the opportunities before us. Shine Ever Brighter reflects a shared vision for how we will build on our strengths, deepen our impact and ensure a vibrant future for our students and our institution.
This strategic plan is grounded in Lenoir-Rhyne’s mission and values and shaped by the voices of our community. It affirms our commitment to academic and athletic excellence, meaningful student experiences and strong partnerships that extend beyond our campuses. At its core, the plan is about people—our students, faculty, staff, alumni and partners—and the responsibility we share to prepare graduates for lives of purpose, leadership and service.
As we move forward, this plan will guide our decisions, focus our efforts and hold us accountable to the outcomes that matter most. Through collaboration, innovation and faithful stewardship, we will continue to strengthen Lenoir-Rhyne’s identity and expand its reach, ensuring that the impact of an LR education shines ever brighter in the years ahead.
Dr. Summer McGee
President
Strategic Plan News
Stay up to date on the latest milestones, stories and progress of the Shine Ever Brighter strategic plan.
Our Mission
In pursuit of the development of the whole person, Lenoir-Rhyne University seeks to liberate mind and spirit, clarify personal faith, foster physical wholeness, build a sense of community and promote responsible leadership for service in the world.
As an institution of the North Carolina Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the university holds the conviction that wholeness of personality, true vocation and the most useful service to God and the world are best discerned from the perspective of Christian faith.
As a community of learning, the university provides programs of undergraduate, graduate and continuing study committed to the liberal arts and sciences as a foundation for a wide variety of careers and as guidance for a meaningful life.
This strategic plan is rooted in Lenoir-Rhyne University’s enduring mission, vision and values, which guide our priorities, decisions and commitments as we move forward together.
Our Vision
Our goal is to be a nationally recognized liberal arts institution of choice—known for excellence in building leaders for tomorrow, fostering lifelong learning, positioning graduates for success in their professional, personal and spiritual lives and providing an unparalleled quality of caring within our university community.
Our Values
Lenoir-Rhyne University’s core values shape how we live, learn and work together as a community. These principles guide our actions, inform our decisions and support the fulfillment of our mission and vision.
Excellence
We strive for excellence in everything we do, cultivating intellectual, physical and spiritual growth and developing our talents and abilities to their fullest potential.
Integrity
We act with integrity at all times, respecting one another, practicing honesty and taking responsibility for our words and actions.
Care
We care for others in our learning and working relationships, serve as responsible stewards of our resources and support one another in pursuit of the common good.
Curiosity
We learn from our community, past and present, approach important issues with humility and openness and embrace the richness of diverse people and perspectives.
