Lee University’s 38th annual Summer Honors program recently hosted 211 incoming freshmen and rising high school seniors from around the country for a two-week experience. This interactive event prepares students for the spiritual, academic, and social opportunities of college. 

This year’s theme was “Restore the Roar,” based on the Scripture Proverbs 28:1, “…the godly are as bold as lions.” Students were reminded that God has a purpose and plan for their life and that they are called, free, redeemed, chosen, priceless, and forgiven. 

“Summer Honors was such a transformative time in my life when I was a student, and participating this year for the second time as a staff member was no different,” said Kaitlyn Foulks, a Summer Honors resident assistant. “We witnessed so many students come out of their hardened shells and begin to claim the names that Christ has been calling them all along. Our prayer was that the Lord would ‘Restore the Roar’ of our students and ourselves, and I believe that is exactly what He did!” 

From June 18-30, the students participated in various activities in and outside of the classroom. They had the choice of two out of 14 courses to take to gain six college credits. Class selections included Lessons from Leaders: Ancient to Contemporary; Health and Survival: When Others Run Out, We Run In; By the Renewing of Your Mind: Worship, Imagination, and the Christian Life; and Doing Business with the Sharks, all taught by Lee professors. Outside of the classroom, students rafted down the Ocoee River, competed in the traditional Greek Olympics, and enjoyed an “80s Night” party and a formal. 

Through devotionals, small groups, and times of worship, students were also able to experience the faith-development aspect of campus life. 

“Directing Summer Honors was a great experience,” said Dr. Jason Robinson, SH director and education professor. “Participants experienced firsthand what it’s like to be a student at Lee. They were taught by some of the greatest professors, participated in powerful worship experiences, engaged in exciting activities, and met friends that will last a lifetime.” 

In between classes and activities, students also took time to serve the community, working with 18 different organizations across Cleveland/Bradley County, such as United Way, The Caring Place, Stuart Elementary, and New Hope Pregnancy Center. 

“It has been a blessing to be a part of the Summer Honors program for the past seven years,” said Stacey York, staff coordinator at Lee. “Watching the students’ transformation over the course of two weeks has been one of the highlights of my career, and I’m looking forward to welcoming many of these students back on our campus this fall.” 

For more information about Summer Honors, click here or contact the Office of Student Life at (423) 614-8406.