• University Storm Recovery Updates

    UPDATE: Monday, Sept. 30, 5 p.m.
    As of a few minutes ago, power has been fully restored to the Hickory campus. Every building should now have power and internet. In addition, internet is now available across the Columbia campus. 

    We have learned that our Asheville center facility received minimal damage and has power. However, the building does not have water or internet. We continue to identify options to support our students, faculty and staff in the Asheville area. 

    On Thursday, Oct. 3, at 7:30 p.m., the LR Wind Ensemble and Wind Symphony Concert will perform its first concert of the year, “Skyward!” at P.E. Monroe Auditorium on the Hickory campus. This event was originally scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 1. If you can safely travel, we hope you can join us for a musical outlet for our community as we recover from Hurricane Helene. 

    Thank you for your continued support.

    University Storm Recovery Updates

A heartfelt thank-you

Message from University President Dr. Fred Whitt

  • Published October 1, 2024
Utility crew cleaning up and repair electric lines near Hickory campus

I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the incredible resilience, flexibility and positivity you've all demonstrated during the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

I know that the past few days have been incredibly challenging, but your ability to adapt, support one another and find creative ways to stay connected is truly inspiring. Whether it's gathering in the library for fellowship or simply checking in on your neighbors, your kindness and community spirit have been a bright light during this difficult time.

I want to extend a special thank you to our dedicated staff members at Aramark Food Service, facilities staff in Hickory and Columbia, Campus Security, Athletics and Student Life. Their tireless efforts have ensured the safety and well-being of our students throughout this period. I’d also like to thank Wayne Huddleston of Duke Energy for his support and assistance, Nat Auten at the Hickory YMCA for opening their doors to our students, Hickory-based MDI and Jason Ramsey for loaning us a refrigerated trailer to help with food service, Lake Electric for providing a temporary generator and Catawba College for hosting our football game. 

At Lenoir-Rhyne, caring is one of our core values, and I know that we're all deeply concerned about those who continue to recover from the storm. The devastation in western North Carolina is heartbreaking, and the needs are immense. I've spoken with the presidents of several neighboring institutions, and they face significant challenges in returning to full operations.

We have staff, faculty and students in western North Carolina whose homes have been damaged and whose families are dealing with unimaginable hardships. We are working to determine how best to support them as they recover.

Thank you again for your patience, understanding, and unwavering support. Your commitment to our community is truly commendable. You have shown the very best of Lenoir-Rhyne.

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Utility crew cleaning up and repair electric lines near Hickory campus
A heartfelt thank-you

A message from University President Dr. Fred Whitt expressing LR's deepest gratitude for the incredible resilience, flexibility and positivity you've all demonstrated during the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

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University Updates text with Lenoir-Rhyne University logo
University Storm Recovery Updates

Thank you for your patience as we navigate the effects of Hurricane Helene on the Hickory, Columbia and Asheville campuses and the surrounding areas. Check the Lenoir-Rhyne website regularly for the latest updates.

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October 01 / P.E. Monroe Auditorium
Lenoir-Rhyne Wind Symphony and Wind Ensemble Concert [Changed to Oct. 3]
October 03 / P.E. Monroe Auditorium
Lenoir-Rhyne Wind Symphony and Wind Ensemble Concert
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