Lee University will welcome alumni and their families to campus Nov. 7–8 for Homecoming 2025. The weekend will feature events that celebrate old memories and create new ones as alumni reconnect with classmates, professors, and student life. 
 
“Homecoming is one of my favorite times of the year at Lee. It’s when our campus comes alive with the energy of our alumni returning home,” said Carman Lastoria, director of alumni and donor relations. “There’s something truly special about seeing familiar faces, hearing old stories, and watching new memories take shape. I’m honored to help create a space where our alumni feel celebrated, connected, and reminded of the lasting impact Lee has had on their lives. I can’t wait to welcome everyone back and share in the joy of this incredible weekend together.” 
 
This year, the university celebrates the Ladies of Lee’s 60th anniversary, Backyard Ministry’s 30th anniversary, and the 50th reunion of the Class of 1975.  
 
The weekend of festivities will begin with the fourth annual 1918 Society golf tournament held at the Cleveland Country Club with registration beginning at 8:30 a.m. on Friday.  
 
Homecoming check in for alumni will begin at 10 a.m. in the Higginbotham Administration Building and will be a time of celebration and reconnection, as more details of the weekend’s schedule will be provided. Tours of the new Welcome Center will also be available in the same location from 1 to 4 p.m.  
 
A new event this year, Lee Writes, beginning at 4 p.m., will take place in the School of Theology & Ministry Jones Lecture Hall and features alumni authors and their work. The Grand Reunion will follow on the Pedestrian Mall at 5 p.m. with food and live music as an opportunity for students and alumni to create new memories with friends. Following the Grand Reunion, schools and departments will host dessert receptions for returning alumni at various locations across campus.  
 
The night will begin with a volleyball game at 6 p.m. in the Paul Dana Walker Arena, and Traditions of Lee will follow in Pangle Hall at 7 p.m. to honor the musical tradition of Lee University. Features will include performances from Voices of Lee, Ladies of Lee, Jazz Band, the Lee Singers, and a closing number from the Festival Choir. 
 
The evening will close with the 7:30 p.m. performance of “Twelve Angry Jurors” presented by Lee Theatre at the Buzz Oates Black Box Theater in the Communication Arts Building, followed by a Shenanigans Improv Show at 9 p.m. in the Dixon Center.   
 
“It’s a pleasure to present our Lee University and greater Cleveland audiences with such an iconic piece of theatre,” said Anna Marie Brendel, assistant professor of theatre at Lee. “The Lee University production will utilize the versatility of the Buzz Oates Black Box Theater to create a unique, one-of-a-kind theatrical experience for every audience member. We hope that patrons will be intrigued to see such a famous play on our season lineup.” 
 
Saturday morning will begin with check in from 8-10 a.m. Starting at 8:30 a.m., schools and departments across campus will host their breakfasts. Alumni are encouraged to attend and reunite with professors and former classmates.  
 
At 10 a.m., School of Music ensembles will perform in the Music in the Air showcase, providing ambience for the club and organization booths as they welcome back their alumni on the Pedestrian Mall. The Homecoming Parade will bring everyone back to this space at 11:15 a.m. and be followed by a COOK-Out from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., to celebrate Dr. Cook’s first Homecoming as President. In addition, Backyard Ministries is inviting all alumni to join in the cookout as they celebrate their 30th anniversary. 
 
Directly following the parade, the women’s and men’s basketball teams will play at 12 and 2 p.m., respectively. During halftime of the men’s game, this year’s Homecoming court will be presented, and the Homecoming Queen will be announced.    
 
To conclude the festivities, the Ladies of Lee 60th anniversary concert will take place in Pangle Hall at 6 p.m., followed by the Night of Champions Boxing showcase in the Conn Center at 7 p.m. There will be another performance of “Twelve Angry Jurors” in the Black Box Theatre at 7:30 p.m. and a Shenanigans Improv Show in the Rose Lecture Hall at 9 p.m.  
 
A highlight of the weekend for many, guests can enjoy the yellow umbrellas that hang over the Pedestrian Mall throughout Homecoming season, representing the support of alumni who now help to give shelter to current and upcoming students. 
 
In addition to welcoming alumni back to campus, the Cleveland community is invited to celebrate this year’s Homecoming events with the Flames at the athletic events, concerts, and theatre performances.  
 
For more information, contact the Alumni Relations Office at (423) 614-8316, [email protected], or visit leeuniversity.edu/alumni/alumni-events/.  

Lee University recently hosted “Worthy Now,” a conference for women of all ages. This semester’s theme, “Healthy Relationships,” invited participants to explore the importance of building meaningful connections rooted in truth and love. 
 
“This fall’s event continued reflecting on Psalm 139:14, ‘I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Your works are wonderful, and my soul knows that very well,’ and how this truth shapes the way we see ourselves and how we relate to others – in our friendships, our community, and beyond,” said Stacey York, spiritual life events coordinator and Worthy Now chair.  
  
The keynote speaker for the event was Briley Williams, a Lee alum and faculty member in the School of Nursing. She shared a message centered on civility, identity, self-worth, and healthy boundaries, all grounded in a Christ-centered perspective. Williams’ words offered a picture of what it looks like to walk with confidence, compassion, and conviction in everyday life.  
  

“Speaking at ‘Worthy Now’ was such an incredible and meaningful experience,” said Williams. “I remember being in this same season of life and needing the exact reminders that this semester’s theme of ‘Worthy Now’ delivered. It was overwhelming, in the best way, to witness so many young women leaning into conversations about their faith, their worth, and their relationships, and I am grateful that the Lord used me on this night to speak to so many girls walking through this season!”  
  
After the keynote speech, Williams joined a panel with Lee alum and staff counselor Ghalysa Swann-White and current students Sadie Beth Eby and Sarah Beth Savell. The panelists had a conversation about love, friendship, and personal growth. They encouraged trusting God’s timing, knowing your worth in Him, and recognizing that healthy boundaries protect, not hinder relationships. Through reflections on friendship, loneliness, and self-worth, they reminded the women in attendance that every relationship flourishes when it’s rooted in Christ and guided by grace.  
  
Afterwards, 25 staff and faculty hosted tables and led discussion centered around what was shared by the panelists.  
  
“Worthy Now” is dedicated to encouraging the women at Lee to embrace their worth, empower others to do the same, and inspire the calling on their lives.    
  
For more information on “Worthy Now,” contact York, at [email protected].     

Lee University recently held the seventh annual McNair-Ledford Undergraduate Research Symposium on its campus, featuring 39 presentations representing three colleges and universities, with cash awards for the winners.  
 
“Many research, scholarly, and creative activities are underway across disciplines, and this is one opportunity to highlight a few of them,” said Dr. Andra Tharp, director of the McNair Scholars Program and the Office of Undergraduate Research and Scholarship. “Specifically for the McNair Scholars Program and Ledford Scholars, the symposium showcases their summer research projects conducted under the mentorship of faculty members. I’m constantly impressed by the quality of our student research and how well these experiences prepare students for their careers and to compete for advanced degrees.” 
 
The symposium welcomed 40 participants from East Tennessee State University, Lee, and Tennessee Wesleyan University. Of those, 26 were Lee students representing eight departments and 16 majors. 
 
During the event, students presented posters and gave oral presentations of their summer research to faculty and administrative staff members from the universities represented, who served as judges.  
 
In between presentations, participating students had the opportunity to attend the concurrent Graduate School Fair sponsored by the Lee Center for Calling and Career and to participate in a bingo mixer created to encourage inter-university discussion and reflection on the research.  
 
“I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to present the conclusions of my research over this past summer,” said Jackson Paladin, a junior theology major at Lee. “The experience was both rewarding and important for personal growth and development in my academic journey. I hope to get more opportunities to present my research findings, both at Lee and at conferences abroad.” 
 
The awards were divided into two categories based on presentation type. Lee winners for the poster category included Jonah Pope, Kelly McConnell, and Rhiannon Nicoletti, in first, second, and tied for third place respectively. Rachel Allen received first place in the oral presentation category, and Paladin and Kaitlyn Stoker tied for second. 
 
The overall winner award went to Lee student Chloe Freake for her presentation, “Why No-One Wants to Work Anymore: Occupational Burnout Among Customer Service Workers.” 
 
The McNair-Ledford Undergraduate Research Symposium is held in collaboration with the Appalachian College Association and the Ronald E. McNair Postbaccalaureate Achievement Program.    
 
While the symposium occurs annually, research occurs across Lee’s campus throughout the year. Students interested in learning more about these opportunities are encouraged to visit the Office of Undergraduate Research and Scholarship located in Room 107 of the Humanities Building. 
  
For more information about the McNair Program, visit leeuniversity.edu/mcnair/. 

Students in Lee University’s Anglers Fly Fishing course stepped into the stream for their first hands-on experience earlier this month, outfitted in high-quality waders and boots donated by David Luzader, owner of Ranger Outdoors LLC. 
 
The donation, valued at approximately $5,000, provides essential gear for students, many of whom are new to fly fishing and are enrolled in the experiential course taught by Dr. Brian DeLoach. 
 
“Our students not only participate in three fly fishing trips per semester but also engage in service-learning, which includes stream clean-up and often grueling trail maintenance,” said DeLoach. “All this activity requires durable waders and boots, as trout in this region only live in cold water. This generous donation from Mr. Luzader ensures our students stay dry and warm whether they’re fishing or working.” 
 
While the Anglers Fly Fishing course is technically offered through the Department of Health, Exercise Science & Secondary Education (HESSE) as an elective, the Campus Recreation office oversees the LeeU Angler’s Club and all non-academic aspects of the class, including equipment, budgets, and field trip experiences. 
 
Ranger Outdoors LLC is a local company that distributes goods in the fly fishing industry under the name Angler Sport Group. It owns several premium fly fishing brands, including Daiichi Hooks, Chota Outdoor Gear, Dinsmores, and C&F Design. Daiichi is widely used in the fly tying industry, while Chota supplies boots and waders to the fishing community. 
 
“Lee has been a part of our family for many years,” said Luzader. “We have two daughters and a son who all attended Lee. Lee is also a very important part of our community, and it’s an honor to support the university and some of its programs.” 
 
Luzader emphasized his hope that students will find more than just technical skills in the course. 
 
“I think it’s very important for students to truly learn and understand the beauty of God’s creation,” said Luzader. “Nothing beats standing in a mountain stream with a fly rod in your hand and connecting with His creation.” 
 
Luzader also noted that the donated gear was specifically selected for women. “This is a very underserved segment of the fly fishing community,” said Luzader. 
 
“We are deeply grateful for Mr. Luzader’s continued partnership and his investment in our students,” said Kevin Hudson, director of Campus Recreation at Lee. “This donation is more than just equipment; it’s a way to help our students fully engage with their learning and the outdoors.” 
 
The LeeU Angler’s Club and Flyfishing class emphasize both skill development and environmental stewardship, with students completing multiple field trips and service projects throughout the semester. 
 
For more information about the Lee U Anglers or the Flyfishing class, visit leeuniversity.edu/campus-recreation/outdoor/ or contact DeLoach at [email protected]. 
 

The Lee University Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Dr. Leonardo Rosario, will present its annual fall concert on Monday, Oct. 27, at 7:30 p.m. in Pangle Hall. 
  
The performance will feature Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture,” Carl Strommen’s “Prairiesong,” and Antonín Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9, “From the New World.” 
 
Though composed by European musicians, the selected works reflect themes that resonate with the American experience. Dvořák’s “New World Symphony” was written during his time in the U.S., drawing inspiration from American melodies and landscapes, while Strommen’s “Prairiesong” offers a lyrical interpretation of the open prairies of North America. 
 
“This concert brings together a beautiful mix of energy, lyricism, and tradition,” said Rosario. “Our students have worked hard to prepare a thoughtful and engaging program, and we look forward to sharing it with the community.” 
  
The Lee University Symphony Orchestra is composed of select instrumentalists and performs a range of major works including operatic, choral, and large-scale symphonic repertoire. 
  
In addition to directing the orchestra, Rosario serves as assistant professor of strings in Lee’s School of Music, where he teaches applied violin and viola. He earned his Doctor of Musical Arts from the University of North Carolina, a Master of Music from the Boston Conservatory, and a Bachelor of Music from São Paulo State University. An internationally accomplished performer, he has appeared as a soloist, chamber musician, and orchestral player in more than 10 countries. In recent years, he has expanded into conducting, working with youth and community ensembles to foster artistic collaboration and growth. 
  
Monday’s concert is free, non-ticketed, and open to the public. A livestream will also be available at leeu.live. 
  
For more information about the Lee Symphony Orchestra, this performance, or other music events at Lee University, contact the School of Music at (423) 614-8240 or [email protected]. 

The Lee University Presidential Concert Series will continue its 33rd season with a performance by the acclaimed Glenn Miller Orchestra on Thursday, Oct. 30, at 7:30 p.m. in Pangle Hall. 
 
“We are thrilled to welcome the Glenn Miller Orchestra back to Lee University,” said Dr. Vanessa Wei, director of the Presidential Concert Series. “Their past performances here have been met with overwhelming enthusiasm, and we’re excited to once again share their timeless sound with our community.”  
 
Praised by The New York Times as having “a popularity so universal and lasting,” the Glenn Miller Orchestra is one of the most sought-after big bands in the world. The current edition of the Glenn Miller Orchestra travels with a full complement of musicians, playing to sold-out crowds around the globe each year. 
 
During the years of World War II and throughout the 1940s, the original group – formed by Alton Glenn Miller – popularized swing and jazz favorites such as “Chattanooga Choo Choo,” “Moonlight Serenade,” “Over the Rainbow,” and dozens of others. The band quickly became the most commercially successful dance orchestra of the swing era. 
 
The orchestra, along with lead singers, will perform their catalog of big band classics just as they would have more than 80 years ago, when Glenn Miller stood in front of his band. It’s a show that continues to transport audiences back in time and is as nostalgic as it is exciting. 
 
The Glenn Miller Orchestra has performed across the United States, as well as in Australia, Europe, Guam, Iceland, Japan, New Zealand, the Philippines, and Central and South America. The group has toured continuously since 1956, performing in more than 200 concerts and dances per year. Each performance includes the classics that first made it famous, as well as modern selections arranged in its unique sound. 

This concert is generously supported by the Tennessee Arts Commission.
 
Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for students, seniors, and children and can be purchased at the Lee University Box Office in the Dixon Center, or by calling (423) 614-8343 one week before the event between 3 and 6 p.m. Tickets are also available at eventbrite.com.
 
Designated parking will be available, with assistance offered as needed. Additional details will be shared with ticketholders in the days leading up to the event. Guests may also park at First Cumberland Presbyterian Church, located at 200 Church Street, which has kindly made its lot available for use.
 
For more information on the Presidential Concert Series, visit leeuniversity.edu/academics/music/pcs or call the School of Music at (423) 614-8240. 

Lee University recently held a reception to honor the 56 undergraduate students selected as Lettie Pate Whitehead recipients for the 2025-26 academic year. The event featured several speakers who celebrated and encouraged the women’s academic and spiritual pursuits.  
 
The reception began with Vanessa Hammond, vice president for university relations, who welcomed guests and highlighted the Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation’s longstanding commitment to supporting education. She spoke of the powerful effect the foundation has had on the lives of its Lee University scholars and encouraged the students in their educational journey. Dr. Lorinda Roberts, vice president for student success, followed by opening the reception in prayer and sharing gratitude for those gathered. 
 
After refreshments, Dr. Angela Waltrip, director of the LEAP Trio Grant, introduced Tonya Cook, wife of Lee President Dr. Phil Cook, who, in an interview with Lettie Pate Whitehead scholar Jasmine Medlock, offered a unique and inspiring perspective to the scholars in attendance. 
 
“The Lettie Pate Whitehead reception was a wonderful time to see and reconnect with previous and new scholars,” said Kaylen Purks, a student success coach at Lee. “It was inspiring to hear Mrs. Cook share her perspective as a first-generation student, including both the challenges and the beautiful moments that come with that experience. All of the students left inspired after hearing her testimony about the faithfulness of the Lord throughout college and her life at Lee.” 
 
Among the 56 Lettie Pate Whitehead scholars, 15 were new recipients and include Natalie Anderson, a criminal justice major from Maryville, Tennessee; Katelyn Buller, a nursing major from Copperhill, Tennessee; Anne Cravatt, a nursing major from Asheville, North Carolina; Rebecca Dardich, a biology major from Clearwater, Florida; Raquel Davis, a music major with an emphasis in vocal performance from Cartersville, Georgia; Katelyn Gallaher, a music major from Cleveland, Tennessee; Elizabeth Harris, a biology major from Dalton, Georgia; Savannah Hilburn, a nursing major from Chatsworth, Georgia; Casey Holeman, a global transformation and teaching English to speakers of other languages major from Franklin, Tennessee; Emma LeRoy, a discipleship ministry major from Southaven, Mississippi; Carrie Partin, a theatre major from Dunlap, Tennessee; Milly Smith, a special education major from Estill Springs, Tennessee; Maysie Stewart, an English major from Tellico Plains, Tennessee; Fiona Varnum, a liberal studies major from Pikeville, Tennessee; and Emily Warthan, a management major from Knoxville, Tennessee.  
 
The Lettie Pate Whitehead Foundation, a public charity dedicated to female students and their education at more than 200 colleges, universities, and schools, encourages young women to become leaders in their communities by supporting them as they complete their education.   
   
Mrs. Lettie Pate Whitehead Evans, for whom the foundation is named, was born in 1872 in Virginia. She married Joseph Brown Whitehead in 1894, who later formed a contract with Coca-Cola to bottle and sell their products. In 1906, Mrs. Whitehead gained control of the business upon her husband’s death and became one of the first women to serve on the board of directors for a major American corporation in 1934.     
 
Throughout Mrs. Whitehead’s life, she supported charities and education programs. Her contributions and concern for others left a lasting impact on her community and throughout the region.     
   
For more information about the Lettie Pate Whitehead Scholarship, contact Lee’s Financial Aid office at (423) 614-8300.   

The Lee University Lady Flames volleyball team will host the 18th annual Volley for a Cure match on Friday, Oct. 24, at 6 p.m. in the Paul Dana Walker Arena. The team will face off against the University of Montevallo Falcons.  
 
The event aims to help bring awareness to breast cancer and raise money to support a student who is a family member of someone impacted by cancer. This year, the proceeds will go to Britain Sapp, a local high school senior planning to attend Lee next year. There will be a presentation honoring Sapp and her family before the match begins.  
 
“The Volley for a Cure match has always held a special place in my heart,” said Lee Volleyball Coach Christa Fabre. “It is a longstanding tradition where we get to celebrate survivors, bring awareness, and provide aid to someone who has been impacted by the devastating wave of cancer.” 
 
The volleyball team will sell pink T-shirts for $15 with 100% of the profits going toward Sapp and her family. Shirts can also be purchased in advance from any member of the volleyball team or by contacting Kayla Louie, assistant to athletic operations, at [email protected].  
 
In the lobby of the arena during the game, a “Pink Party” will take place and feature a photo booth, games, and other activities organized by Phi Gamma Delta.  
 
For more information about Volley for a Cure, email Fabre at [email protected] or assistant volleyball coach Cece Blanchard at [email protected]. 

Lee University will present its 63rd annual student talent showcase, Parade of Favorites (POF), on Friday, Oct. 24, at 7 p.m. in the Conn Center.  
 
This year’s theme is “The crown and the flame,” inspired by the biblical scripture Isaiah 61:3 and reflects both honor and purpose, serving as a reminder that distinction comes not only from achievement but also from a spirit of humility and service.  
 
An anticipated tradition across campus clubs and organizations, all participants come together to support the heart of POF, which is service. This year’s contestants and escorts are partnering with Smoky Mountain Children’s Home, which provides care for at-risk children and teens through adoption, foster care, and residential programs, offering each child the opportunity to overcome the circumstances of their past, while exploring opportunities for their future. 
 
“Parade of Favorites is more than a showcase of talent – it’s a celebration of character, service, and the unique stories each student brings to our community,” said Dr. Tony Lombard, director of Student Connections and Engagement at Lee. “This year’s theme captures the essence of our mission: to honor not just accomplishments, but the heart behind them. We’re proud to partner with Smoky Mountain Children’s Home and highlight the power of purpose-driven leadership through our students.” 
  
POF will open with a group dance performed by all the contestants and their escorts. The contestants will then compete in the categories of talent, interview, and formal wear, being scored on their performances.  
 
A variety of Lee’s student organizations are represented through 16 contestants this year.   
 
Anna Cuison, a senior business administration major, represents Phi Chi Gamma. She is from Franklin, Tennessee, and is involved in women’s rugby, Black Student Union, and The Caring Place. She will be escorted by Carter Patrick.  
 
Rachel Turner represents Alpha Gamma Chi. She is a senior biology major from Cleveland, Tennessee, and works locally as a patient care technician. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, running, and traveling. Turner will be escorted by Luke Haward.  
 
Grace Mumbower, a junior theological and professional studies major from Newnan, Georgia, is representing Tau Kappa Omega. She is also involved in Omega Alpha Phi and works at the Leonard Center. Mumbower will be escorted by Josh Goins.   
 
Beth Trippany, representing Theta Delta Kappa, is a senior psychology major. From Decatur, Alabama, she is involved in Gateway peer leading and Omega Alpha Phi and is a member of the Admissions A-Force team. Trippany will be escorted by Preston Damron.    
 
Leila Pavlovsky, senior music and worship major, represents Ladies of Lee. She is from Dallas, Texas, and has served as the choir’s Hilltop worship director, section leader, and secretary. Pavlovsky is passionate about mental health advocacy and faith. She will be escorted by Sam Ayers.   
 
Hannah Ruska, a senior exercise science major from Honolulu, Hawai’i, is representing Pi Kappa Pi. During her time at Lee, she’s been involved in Turning Point USA and served as a Summer Honors Peer Leader and an Omega Alpha Phi officer. Ruska’s service work spans hurricane relief, mission trips, and ministries like Isaiah 117 House. She will be escorted by Francis Rodriguez.  
 
Maya Hyatt represents Alpha Psi Omega. She is a senior musical theatre major from Greenville, South Carolina, and is heavily involved in Lee Theatre, where she has performed, choreographed, and served as both a teaching and office assistant. Hyatt will be escorted by Sam Martin.     
   
Macey Jones, representing Delta Zeta Tau, is a senior professional and theological studies major. From Cleveland, Tennessee, she has worked with Summer Honors, the Leonard Center, and LeeU Update during her time at Lee. Jones currently serves as chaplain and co-induction chair for Delta Zeta Tau. She will be escorted by Thomas Wood.  
 
Macee Miller, a sophomore music education major from Sevierville, Tennessee, is representing Lee Singers. She is a student worker for the Behavioral and Social Sciences Department and Student Life Office. Miller will be escorted by Mack Daniel.    
 
Abbie Stephens represents Upsilon Xi. She is a junior communications and digital media double major from Cartersville, Georgia, and is a member of Delta Zeta Tau. She serves at Second Harvest Thrift Store and Refuge Center. Stephens will be escorted by Elijah Wilds.  
 
Maya Nobles, representing the Peer Leaders program, is a senior music business major. From Mobridge, South Dakota, she is involved in multiple ensembles and the Dean’s Council, and she previously interned at the Danny Murray Recording Studio. She will be escorted by Kaleb Lasseter. 
 
Gabrielle Banker, a sophomore theatre major from Franklin, Tennessee, is representing Kappa Psi Nu. She has performed in several Lee Theatre productions and serves as Kappa’s chaplain. Banker will be escorted by Ben Bare.  
 
Genre Mae Davis represents Residential Life and Housing. She is a junior communication major from Huntsville, Alabama, and leads Backyard Ministry. Davis also serves on the Campus Activities Board. She will be escorted by Christian Arnold. 
 
Emilie Ballard, a senior psychology major, represents Sigma Nu Sigma. She is from Johnson City, Tennessee, and enjoys volunteering at local organizations such as Project Free2Fly and Signal Centers. Ballard will be escorted by Noah Hoogerheide. 
 
Bella Owens, representing Omega Alpha Phi, is a senior psychology major from Cleveland, Tennessee. She enjoys being active around campus and has served with Backyard Ministries, Operation Compassion, and Gateway Peer Leading. Owens will be escorted by Carter Douglas. 
 
Emma Smith, a senior business major from Athens, Georgia, is representing Epsilon Lambda Phi. She has served as Epsilon’s president and vice president and serves with Backyard Ministries and the Adopt-a-Grandparent program. Smith works for Presbyterian Villages, where she hopes to build her post-graduate career. She will be escorted by Tanner Welch.  
 
The student team for the event consists of Kiera Colson, creatives director; Ella Hepp, operations director; Ellie Newton, logistics director; Samantha Bucciarelli, hospitality director; Sydney Kruger, choreographer; Sophia Dunagan, social media manager; Luchen Strickland, emcee; Lia McKenzie, emcee; and Tatum Price, Office of Student Connections and Engagement student director of campus events.  
  
POF is a free event open to the community. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. Seating is first come, first served with a reserved seating section for the families of participants. There will be a section for the hearing impaired with student interpreters from the Lee University deaf studies minor program. 
  
For more information, email [email protected] or the Campus Activities Board at [email protected].  

Lee University has recently made significant updates to the Rymer Scholars Program, one of its most prestigious scholarship opportunities, with increased award amounts and a new housing stipend beginning in the 2025–2026 academic year. 
  
For over 30 years, the Rymer Scholars Program has recognized and supported high-achieving seniors from Cleveland High School, Bradley Central High School, and Walker Valley High School. Each year, nine students are selected to receive one of three award tiers: Gold, Silver, or Bronze. 
  
“The Rymer Scholarship represents the very best of what we aspire to at Lee University – recognizing academic excellence, rewarding character and leadership, and investing in Bradley County students who will shape the future of our community,” said Lee President Dr. Phil Cook. “The enhancements to this scholarship reflect our ongoing commitment to making a Lee education both accessible and exceptional. We are grateful to the Rymer family for their vision and generosity, which continue to inspire the next generation of leaders.” 
  
Starting with next year’s incoming cohort, the annual scholarship amounts will increase as follows: Gold – from $2,500 to $5,000; Silver – from $1,250 to $2,500; and Bronze – from $500 to $1,000. 
  
In addition to the increased financial awards, all Rymer Scholars will now receive a two-year housing stipend, covering the cost of on-campus housing for their first four semesters at Lee. 
  
The total potential value of the scholarship package over four years now stands at: Gold – $20,000 and two years of housing; Silver – $10,000 and two years of housing; and Bronze – $4,000 and two years of housing. 
  
This initiative strengthens Lee’s ability to recruit and retain exceptional local students, offering them a competitive alternative to other public and private institutions. 
  
“The Rymers invested in the future of our community in so many ways, partly because of their belief in the talent and potential of our young people,” said Lee Chancellor Dr. Paul Conn. “It’s great to see Lee’s Rymer Program continue to embrace that belief.” 
  
The Rymer Foundation, established in 1989 by Hoyle Rymer and his father, Robert Rymer, continues to honor its original vision of fostering educational excellence and leadership among students in Bradley County. In partnership with Lee University, the foundation has helped more than 200 students earn the title of “Rymer Scholar” since the program’s inception. 
  
“These changes send a powerful message to local high school seniors: you belong here, and we’re ready to invest in your future,” said Elizabeth Pace, director of Undergraduate Admissions. “The Rymer Scholarship is more than financial support – it’s a launchpad for student success and community impact.” 
  
For more information about the Rymer Scholarship, contact Lee’s Office of Admissions at [email protected] or (423) 614-8500.