Introduction:
Located in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, Lees-McRae College is a small liberal arts college with a big heart. It was founded in 1900 by Presbyterian ministers Reverend Edgar Tufts and Reverend Samuel Loomis, and named after Robert E. Lee and Confederate General James McRae. Despite its historical roots, Lees-McRae College has become a progressive and inclusive institution that is dedicated to providing a quality education to its students. In this blog post, we will explore some fun facts about Lees-McRae College that you may not have known before.
A rich athletic tradition
Lees-McRae College has a proud tradition of athletics, with 20 NCAA Division II sports teams. The Bobcats have a strong reputation in the Conference Carolinas, and have won numerous championships in basketball, cross country, cycling, lacrosse, soccer, tennis, and volleyball. In fact, the men’s cycling team has won an impressive 25 national championships! Lees-McRae College is also the only college in the country with a varsity cycling program. The cycling team has produced numerous Olympians and national champions, including Robin Farina, a gold medalist at the 2011 Pan American Games.
In addition to its varsity sports teams, Lees-McRae College also has a strong intramural program. Students can participate in a wide range of sports, including dodgeball, flag football, kickball, soccer, and volleyball. The college also has a state-of-the-art fitness center, which is open to all students and staff.
A commitment to sustainability
Lees-McRae College is committed to sustainability and environmental stewardship. In 2007, the college established the Sustainability Committee, which is dedicated to promoting sustainable practices on campus. The committee has implemented a number of initiatives, including recycling programs, composting, energy-efficient lighting, and water conservation measures.
In 2016, Lees-McRae College became the first college in North Carolina to install a large-scale solar energy system on its campus. The 364-kilowatt solar array generates approximately 15% of the college’s electricity needs, and reduces the college’s carbon footprint by 315 metric tons per year. The college has also installed electric vehicle charging stations on campus, and has a fleet of hybrid and electric vehicles.
A unique campus culture
Lees-McRae College has a unique campus culture that is characterized by a strong sense of community and a commitment to service. The college has a robust service-learning program, which allows students to engage in meaningful service projects both locally and internationally. In recent years, students have traveled to Guatemala, Belize, and Costa Rica to work on projects related to education, healthcare, and sustainable agriculture.
The college also has a strong tradition of student-led initiatives, including the annual Mountain Day celebration. Mountain Day is a day of outdoor activities and community building, and includes events such as a 5K race, a picnic, and a concert. Another unique tradition is the “Cabin Crawl,” which is a Halloween event where students dress up in costumes and visit each other’s cabins for snacks and socializing.
A focus on experiential learning
Lees-McRae College is committed to providing its students with hands-on learning opportunities that enhance their classroom education. The college offers a number of experiential learning programs, including internships, research opportunities, and study abroad programs. Students have the opportunity to work with faculty members on research projects, and to present their findings at academic conferences.
Lees-McRae College also has a unique partnership with the Banner Elk Chamber of Commerce, which provides students with opportunities to work on marketing and promotional projects for local businesses. The college’s Outdoor Recreation Management program is another example of its commitment to experiential learning. This program allows students to gain practical experience in the field of outdoor recreation, and includes opportunities for internships and certification programs.
A beautiful location
Lees-McRae College is located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, which is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities. The college’s campus is surrounded by miles of hiking and biking trails, and is just a short drive away from popular outdoor destinations such as Grandfather Mountain and Linville Gorge. The campus itself is also beautiful, with manicured lawns, historic buildings, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Conclusion:
Lees-McRae College is a small college with a big heart and a commitment to excellence in academics, athletics, and the arts. Its unique campus culture, commitment to sustainability, and focus on experiential learning make it a great choice for students who want to make a difference in the world. Whether you’re interested in pursuing a degree in the arts, sciences, or humanities, Lees-McRae College has something to offer. So why not schedule a visit and see for yourself what this remarkable institution has to offer?