Leonhardts contribute to new Science Complex

Wed Feb 3 2010

Jearld and Carolyn Leonhardt of Newton have given $750,000 to Lenoir-Rhyne University in support of the new Science Complex.

This project, expected to cost a total of $25 million, will consist of a 35,000 square foot addition to the Minges Science Building, plus a complete renovation of the existing building.

Both of the Leonhardts graduated from L-R in 1969. Jearld Leonhardt is executive vice president and chief financial officer of CommScope Inc. He has guided CommScope’s finances since it was created in 1976 and has helped the company grow into a global leader in the production of cable and connectivity solutions for communications.

He is chair of the Finance Committee of Lenoir-Rhyne University’s Board of Trustees. “Through several years of sound financial management, Lenoir-Rhyne is in a strong position today to create new opportunities for students and the Hickory region as a whole,” he said.

“That’s why Carolyn and I wanted to support the Science Complex at LRU. We believe this much-needed facility will benefit generations of students. We can personally attest to the importance of a Lenoir-Rhyne education in our own lives. Throughout my business career, I have seen the importance of seizing major opportunities when they present themselves. I believe this project is just such an opportunity.”

Before joining the LRU Board of Trustees in 2008, Leonhardt was a member of the Lenoir-Rhyne Board of Visitors for five years, serving as chairman in 2007-2008. He is a member of the Southern Carolinas Chapter of Financial Executives International.
After graduating from Lenoir-Rhyne, Carolyn Leonhardt worked as a primary school teacher for 15 years, the last 13 of which were at Oxford Elementary School. She is an active volunteer for Palliative Care Center and Hospice of Catawba County.

Dr. Wayne Powell, president of Lenoir-Rhyne University, said: “Jearld and Carolyn Leonhardt have given of themselves to both Lenoir-Rhyne and this community for many years. This generous support of our Science Complex combines both of those commitments by supporting a project that will help provide the best possible science education to the people in this region.”

The Leonhardts are members of Bethlehem United Methodist Church of Claremont. They have two adult children – Crystal Sellers of Charlotte, N.C., and Jason Leonhardt of Ft. Mill, S.C. – and five grandchildren.

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