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Mindset right for a university
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Published: August 20, 2008
The days are numbered for Lenoir-Rhyne College. On Saturday, the Hickory institution will become Lenoir-Rhyne University.
The historic and ambitious change has been in the works for several years. Lenoir-Rhyne already has 50 to 60 degree programs. University status will propel the college toward increasing the number of majors, adding master's programs and expanding adult education opportunities.
Lenoir-Rhyne will have specialty curricula, but it will remain committed to an all-around education and complete student development, a tradition that is difficult for small schools to maintain. It's one of L-R's hallmark characteristics.
The all-around education is attained even with the focus on a specific major.
L-R is not breaking its affiliation with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The church connection has enabled Lenoir-Rhyne to initiate student opportunities shared by the public, such as the convocation program and the Luther-Aquinas studies.
The church is part of the L-R personality, but a college component that does not discourage students of any religious belief, but promotes dialogue and disparate thought.
Lenoir-Rhyne has long been a linchpin of the Hickory community. Its status as an outstanding institution of higher education was forged decades ago.
Now, with L-R gaining university status, its growth is assured and its image enhanced.
We are especially inspired by the response of President Wayne Powell to queries if the possibility of a University of North Carolina-Hickory or Appalachian State University satellite campus affected Lenoir-Rhyne's decision.
"We set our own direction, and our growth is not determined by other people," he said.
Lenoir-Rhyne has been a valuable partner in many inter-collegiate efforts, including the Higher Education Center.
Powell's remarks befit a university that has a well-defined mission and an identity entirely of its own.
Those are good words for an outstanding institution of higher learning.
For more on Lenoir-Rhyne University, go to www.lrc.edu (L-R will have to change the Web site, too).
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