Austin Cavender, a sports management major with a minor in religion from Hendersonville, Tennessee, chose Lee for its strong Christian community and the opportunity to grow in his faith. “I came to Lee because I wanted to go to a Christian college somewhere in the U.S. — a place where I could have community and worship the Lord, and Lee has done that for me.” Austin is also actively involved in a small group at Public Church, which he describes as a wonderful community that has helped him grow closer to the Lord. He has been named to the Dean’s List every semester so far and says one of the highlights of his time at Lee has been the friendships he has formed and the clubs he has joined throughout his college experience. After graduation, Austin hopes to pursue a career that combines his love for sports and ministry or enter the field of sports marketing.
Mia Alexander, a nursing student from Murfreesboro, Tennessee, is a member of the Lady Flames basketball team and was drawn to Lee University by the opportunity to grow both academically and spiritually within a strong Christian community. “The summer of my freshman year, the basketball team went to the Dominican Republic, and it absolutely changed my life. We played basketball against the DR National Team and visited villages where we were able to serve food and pray for families. That trip opened my eyes in a way I’ll never forget.” Mia values the relationships she has built through her nursing cohort—“I absolutely adore them!”—and the camaraderie of being part of the basketball team. After graduation, she hopes to pursue international medical mission work or serve as a pediatric oncology nurse.
Rhyan Liam Nathan Munckton is a nursing student from Andover, Hampshire, United Kingdom. He first knew Lee University was the right fit for him during Lee Day weekend, where he says, “I felt God’s presence and knew I wanted to be a part of this school–everyone has been so kind and loving.” On campus, Rhyan serves as a floor leader in his residence hall, a role he especially enjoys because of the strong friendships and sense of community it builds with both his team and small group members. He is also involved in the American Sign Language club. After graduation, Rhyan plans to begin a career in nursing.
Originally from Albany, Oregon, McKenzie Kosmicki transferred to Lee to pursue her calling in nursing. Since arriving on campus, she has become an active member of the university’s chapter of Nursing Christian Fellowship and enjoys participating in intramural basketball in her free time. “My experience at Lee has been transformational. I love the hospitality I found on campus, and the support I received from the faculty in helping me get here is further proof that this is where God wants me.” Upon graduation, McKenzie plans to either become a trauma nurse or continue her studies at Lee to become a nurse practitioner.
Asher West, a nursing major from Alpharetta, Georgia, first connected with Lee University through the Summer Honors program. “It was the Lord’s intervention during those two weeks that brought me here, and my experience at Lee since arriving has provided a strong foundation for my relationship with God.” Asher serves as a resident assistant with Residential Life and Housing and is a recipient of the Student Care Award, which honors students who demonstrate compassion and support for others. After graduation, Asher plans to pursue a career as a nurse practitioner while staying involved with missions.
Sibyl Rutter, a nursing student from Great Falls, Montana, originally came to Lee to pursue a degree in business but soon after felt called to switch her major to nursing. “I thought I had to jump through the hoops of college, but the education at Lee has been the most enriching and eye-opening educational experience. My professors deepen my perspective and what I know about myself, others, God, and the way the world works.” Outside the classroom, Sibyl enjoys exploring the outdoors and working at Whit’s Frozen Custard in town. After graduation, she plans to marry, begin her career as a registered nurse, and travel across the country before eventually returning to settle in Montana.
Cody Hooper, a vocal performance major from Jackson, Tennessee, was drawn to the university through the meaningful connections he formed with faculty. Reflecting on his early campus visits, he shares, “I loved how personal the professors were when I met them. They actually cared about me and made an effort to connect.” At Lee, Cody has been actively involved in Opera Theatre, serves as the tenor section leader for Lee Chorale, and is a member of the Alpha Psi Omega Theatre Honor Society. One of his most memorable experiences has been performing the role of Captain Von Trapp in “The Sound of Music,” a highlight of his time on stage. After graduation, he plans to pursue a master’s degree, while continuing to develop his voice, performing opera professionally, and eventually teaching voice at the collegiate level.
Taylor Guyton, a music performance major with a vocal emphasis, is from Cleveland, Tennessee. She chose Lee University for its strong academic programs and Christ-centered community—along with the special connection of being a legacy student, as both of her parents are Lee alumni. During her time at Lee, Taylor has been actively involved in Sigma Nu Sigma, Chorale, Opera Theatre, and Voices of Lee—an ensemble she considers one of her most formative experiences. Among her favorite memories is meeting a group of incoming freshmen online before her first semester, friendships that have remained strong throughout her college journey. After graduation, Taylor plans to pursue a career in opera and musical theatre, building on the foundation of performance and community she found at Lee.
Evan Kramer is an instrumental music education major from Hillsdale, Michigan. He serves as the social media coordinator for the Lee University Wind Ensemble and is an active member of the Lee Orchestra. He was a winner of the Lee School of Music Concerto Aria Competition and consistently earns recognition on the Dean’s List. Evan values the real-life experiences he gains at Lee, particularly the opportunity to perform in large-scale productions such as Classic Christmas and Masterworks. After graduation, he plans to teach middle or high school music in Tennessee or Michigan.
Lydia Forkum, a vocal music major from Scottsboro, Alabama, transferred to Lee University for its strong reputation as a top-tier music school and its Christ-centered community. She is actively involved in Lee Singers, LeeU Worship, and Chorale. Of her experiences, Lydia says Lee Singers holds a special place in her heart: “I thoroughly enjoy the challenging, eclectic music we perform and am delighted to travel with some of the most talented and kind people I’ve ever met.” Lydia is a Dean’s List student and plans to pursue a career in the music industry after graduation.